Plymouth to retain two Laburnum trees on Armada Way

Plymouth City Council has announced a revised management strategy for the Laburnum trees located on Armada Way, confirming that only one tree will be removed following a public consultation process. The decision, finalised on 4 June 2026, marks a shift from initial proposals that suggested the removal of all three trees due to safety concerns regarding their toxicity.

Addressing the safety risk of Laburnum toxicity

Laburnum trees are known for their toxic seeds, which can be mistaken for edible peas, posing a potential health risk to children. The council’s initial recommendation to remove all three trees was driven by the proximity of the plants to a newly installed children’s play area. However, a secondary risk assessment determined that the two trees situated along the Mayflower Street pavement pose a significantly lower threat to public safety than the single tree directly overhanging the play equipment.

To manage the retained trees, the council has implemented a series of safety protocols. The street cleaning team has been tasked with a proactive maintenance schedule to ensure any pods, leaves, or bark that fall into the street area are removed promptly. Furthermore, arborists will perform specific pruning to reduce the likelihood of debris drifting into the playground zone. The site will remain under ongoing observation by council officers to ensure these mitigation measures remain effective.

Consultation results and public feedback

The consultation process, which concluded earlier this month, provided a platform for local residents to influence the council’s decision. A total of 107 responses were received, with 99 of those coming from within the Plymouth administrative boundaries. The feedback showed a clear preference for retention, with 77 respondents (72 per cent) supporting the preservation of the trees, while 30 respondents (28 per cent) favoured full removal.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Organisational Efficiency, described the outcome as a “sensible and precautionary approach.” The council’s official report notes that the existing site layout already incorporates physical barriers, including a hooped fence and dense underplanting of ferns and wood rush, which discourage toddlers from accessing the raised beds where the trees are located.

Main takeaways

Future site management and monitoring

The council has opted against more intrusive management options, such as full translocation or complete removal and replanting, which were deemed unnecessary given the lower risk profile of the remaining trees. The council will continue to monitor the site as part of its routine public space management duties. Residents can review the full consultation comments and the council’s detailed response on the official Plymouth City Council website.

Source: Plymouth City Council