This article was published in 2010 –
Cannon Hill was originally planted with elm trees in the late 1920s but after a decade, these were replaced with Horse chestnuts as the elms had fallen victim to disease. Some of the chestnuts were over 50 years old with some 20/30 year old specimens and four which SGA sponsored. Horse Chestnuts are no longer considered suitable as street trees because of their brittle nature which makes them susceptible to breakage leading to other problems- infections, etc.
In 2009 two chestnuts were removed as well as a tree which fell over near the bus top. Currently, one large chestnut facing the Cherry Tree roundabout has lost several large branches and the state of the diseased tree is clearly visible. Similarly, in some of the Chestnuts on Cannon Hill many have lost several sections of the upper crowns.
Update 2025-
Between 2010 and 2013, several chestnuts were removed although 3 still remain. Tulip trees were planted as they are a hardy street tree less prone to disease, and turn a golden honey colour in the Autumn.