Project Overview
Frodsham Tree Solutions Ltd was instructed by Barrow Parish Council to carry out remedial tree works following recommendations made within a tree health and safety report prepared by Treescope Ltd.
The works focused on a mature Horse Chestnut tree, Aesculus hippocastanum, located adjacent to and overhanging a public playing field.
Due to the tree’s position and the regular use of the space by members of the public, tree safety and proportionate risk management were central to the project.
Rather than removing the tree or carrying out heavy crown reduction, the recommended approach was to install a supplemental support system designed to reduce the risk of structural failure while retaining the tree as a mature landscape feature.
As the tree is located within a Conservation Area, formal consent for the works was sought and obtained from Cheshire West and Chester Council before any operations began.
The Client
Barrow Parish Council
The Tree Safety Challenge
The Horse Chestnut was identified as having a main stem that trifurcated approximately one metre above ground level, creating three co-dominant stems arising from a single union.
Further observations included:
- Soil and organic debris accumulation within the union
Signs of bleeding canker on the main stems
Small to medium diameter deadwood throughout the crown
A structural form that increased the potential risk of stem separation
This combination of included material, tree disease symptoms and co-dominant stem formation created a heightened tree safety concern, particularly during periods of high wind, heavy rain or adverse weather.
Because the tree overhung a public playing field, the consequences of potential failure were significant. The objective was therefore to manage the risk responsibly while avoiding unnecessary tree loss.
Professional Assessment and Bracing Design
Before installation, detailed measurements were taken by our qualified tree professionals to assess the tree’s structure and determine the most suitable support specification.
This included reviewing:
- Appropriate brace strength and load capacity
- Optimum installation height
- Suitable anchor positions across all three stems
- The balance of support required between each stem
- The need to retain natural movement within the crown
Following this assessment, a three-way Cobra dynamic bracing system was selected as the most appropriate solution.
Cobra dynamic bracing is designed to provide supplemental support without rigidly fixing the tree in place.
This allows the tree crown and stems to continue moving naturally, supporting the tree’s ongoing physiological development while reducing the likelihood of sudden stem separation.
Safe Access Using a MEWP
A Mobile Elevating Work Platform, or MEWP, was used to complete the installation.
This approach gave our arborist professionals safe and controlled access to all three stems without the need for a climber to move between the co-dominant sections of the tree.
Using a MEWP was particularly important in this case because it reduced the need to introduce additional dynamic loading onto the weakened union during the works. It also allowed the bracing system to be installed accurately, efficiently and safely.
Cobra Dynamic Bracing Installation
The three-way Cobra dynamic bracing system was installed at the calculated height and positioned to redistribute loading forces between the three stems.
The aim was not to prevent all movement, but to provide a controlled support system that helps reduce the risk of structural failure while allowing the Horse Chestnut to retain its natural movement.
This method provided a practical and proportionate solution for a mature tree in a public setting, balancing safety, conservation and long-term tree management.
The Outcome
The installation of the Cobra dynamic bracing system provided Barrow Parish Council with a responsible tree safety solution that reduced risk while preserving an important mature tree.
The works helped to:
- Reduce the risk of stem separation and potential catastrophic failure
Improve safety for users of the public playing field
Retain a mature and valuable landscape specimen
Allow continued natural movement and development
Avoid the immediate need for significant crown reduction or tree removal
Support ongoing monitoring and future tree management
By taking a considered and technically appropriate approach, Frodsham Tree Solutions Ltd was able to help protect both public safety and the long-term value of the tree.
Installation Date
The installation date was recorded on completion of the works and will act as the baseline date for future inspection and monitoring of the Cobra bracing system, in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations and the ongoing management of the tree.
About Frodsham Tree Solutions Ltd – Supporting Commercial Clients Across the North West
Frodsham Tree Solutions Ltd provides professional arboriculture, tree survey, vegetation management, and grounds maintenance services across the North West. We work with commercial, industrial, estate management, public sector, and private clients, delivering safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible solutions.
As a veteran led business, we are proud to support the transition of Armed Forces personnel into skilled civilian employment while delivering exceptional service to our clients
Learn More About Frodsham Tree Solutions
Frodsham Tree Solutions Ltd provides professional tree surgery and commercial arboricultural services across North Wales and North West England and Cheshire.
All work is delivered in accordance with BS 3998, supported by recognised industry accreditations, and carried out by a disciplined, veteran-led team.
Based in the North West of England, we are ideally situated to conduct tree services in Cheshire, The Wirral, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, North Wales and Lancashire.
For professional advice or a detailed quotation, contact Frodsham Tree Solutions today.
Written By Chris Whitby. Company Owner and Lead Arborist