Plymouth to remove single toxic tree near Armada Way play area

Plymouth City Council has finalized its management plan for the three Laburnum trees located on Armada Way, confirming that only one tree will be removed. Following a public consultation, the council decided to fell the single tree that directly overhangs the toddlers’ play area, while the remaining two trees, which lean over the Mayflower Street pavement, will be retained. This decision marks the conclusion of a review process initiated earlier this year to address safety concerns regarding the toxic nature of Laburnum seeds.

At a glance: The consultation results

• Total responses: 107 (99 from within Plymouth).
• Support for total removal: 28% (30 respondents).
• Support for retention: 72% (77 respondents).
• Action taken: Removal of one high-risk tree; retention and enhanced maintenance of two lower-risk trees.

Managing safety risks for local families

Laburnum trees are known for their toxicity, and their seeds—which bear a striking resemblance to peas—pose a potential ingestion risk to young children. The council’s initial proposal to remove all three trees was designed to eliminate this hazard entirely. However, the final strategy adopts a more nuanced approach, balancing the preservation of urban greenery with rigorous site management.

To mitigate risks from the two remaining trees, the council’s street cleaning teams have been tasked with the regular removal of any pods, leaves, or bark that fall onto the pavement. Furthermore, the trees will undergo specialized pruning to minimize the amount of organic material dropping into the play zone. The area is currently protected by a hooped fence and dense underplanting of ferns and wood rush, which serves as a physical barrier to discourage toddlers from entering the raised bed area where the trees are situated.

Public feedback and council strategy

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Organisational Efficiency, described the recent approach to urban infrastructure as a constructive exercise, much like the Plymouth heat network consultation. He noted that the council aimed for a precautionary approach that respects the community’s preference for retaining the trees while prioritizing child safety. The official report concluded that the two trees leaning over the Mayflower Street pavement present a significantly lower risk of harm compared to the tree situated directly above the play equipment. By removing only the most problematic tree, the council believes it has reached a sensible compromise that addresses the primary safety concern without unnecessary environmental loss.

Future monitoring and site maintenance

The site will remain under active observation by the council’s maintenance teams. Officials have committed to monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the combination of pruning, physical barriers, and debris collection remains an effective safety strategy. The council will evaluate the ongoing site performance to determine if these measures continue to provide sufficient protection. Any further adjustments to the management of these trees will be based on these periodic safety reviews and the continued effectiveness of the current mitigation protocols.

Source: Plymouth City Council