Help choose three new trees for Ditton Road

Overview

The weeping willow at the corner of Ditton Road and Ellerton Road, close to the Ewell Road junction, is a much-loved local tree.

Following a detailed inspection, significant decay has been identified at the base of the tree, together with advanced dieback at the upper portion of the tree. Sadly, the extent and location of the decay mean that pruning is not a suitable option and the tree needs to be removed for public safety.

We know how much the tree is valued by the local community and are sorry that it cannot be retained.

Three new trees will be planted in its place, and we would like local residents to help us choose what comes next.

Why the weeping willow is being removed

Deciding to remove the weeping willow was not a decision the council made lightly. We know how valued mature trees are within our communities and are sorry that this tree cannot be retained. However, its removal is necessary to keep the area safe.

Following a detailed inspection in July 2026, significant decay at the base of the weeping willow was identified, together with advanced dieback in the upper portion of the tree, making it a hazard to public safety. 

Recent monitoring has shown that there is significant decay at the base of the willow tree on both the southern side of the stem and the northern side of the stem with bark loss and bark death. 

The white matting beneath the bark is consistent with honey fungus - a root decay fungus which causes tree instability. The rapid and significant die back in the upper portion of the tree indicates significant root decay is occurring. Unfortunately, there is no treatment option available where structural roots have been decayed and rotted away. The tree is therefore at risk of branches breaking or of the tree being uprooted in heavy wind. 

Unfortunately, the extent and location of the decay means that pruning or reducing the tree would not make it safe to retain, and the tree now needs to be removed for public safety.

Image shows two pictures of the weeping willow, showing significant areas of honey fungus

Change to the tree over time

Below shows images of the Willow tree and how its condition has deteriorated over the past year. 

July 2025 July 2026
Image of large willow tree when it was healthier. The leaves are bright green, the sky behind is blue and there is a white van parked in front The willow tree in july 2026, there is still leaves but it is distinctly different to the year before. Notably, the right hand side of the tree has lost leaves and is yellowing
Images shows the healthy willow tree from a different angle. There is a white van in the right bottom corner and a small black car in front Image shows the willow tree looking sick, with less leaves than previous
Image is taken under the willow tree, and shows the trunk Image is taken under the willow tree. There are white patches on the trunk showing signs of fungus

Choosing the new trees

The Kingston Council tree specialists have identified two native tree species that are suitable to the site and location.

English oak
(quercus robur)

This type of English oak tree can grow to between 20-40m tall, has rounded leaves, yellow hanging flowers and acorns. They host hundreds of insect species and supply an important food source to many birds. 

Find out more about the english oak on the Woodland trust website.

 

 

Image shows four large-leaved lime trees in flowerLarge-leaved lime
(tilia platyphyllos)

Large-leaved lime trees can grow up to 40m tall, have heart shaped leaves, yellow-green flowers and small oval fruit. They are a particularly good food source for caterpillars and their flowers provide nectar and pollen for insects such as bees.

Find out more about large-leaved lime on the Woodland trust website.

 


Lime and oak have been identified as the be best long lived trees for the location. They are both native trees that grow well in Kingston's heavy clay soil and will cope well in the long term with the changing and warming climate. 

Why we are unable to plant another weeping willow

Kingston council’s Tree Specialists have advised against planting another weeping willow, as these trees  are highly susceptible to honey fungus. Any willows planted in this location are likely to become infected and eventually die from the fungus.

Share your views

In this survey, you will be asked what type of tree you would prefer and how many of each. Three trees in total will be planted. 

If you have any questions, or need any of the information in a different format, please get in touch with us via phone: 020 8547 5000, or email engagement@kingston.gov.uk.

Take the Survey

Closes 20 Nov 2026

Opened 5 Oct 2026

Contact

Greenspace Team

020 8547 5002

greenspacesteam@kingston.gov.uk

Areas

  • Surbiton
  • Surbiton Hill
  • Tolworth

Audiences

  • Anyone from any background

Interests

  • Parks & green spaces