La Pobla de Segur Halts Sculpture Project for Plaça de l'Arbre Plane Tree

The La Pobla de Segur City Council is reconsidering the transformation of the emblematic tree's trunk into a sculpture.

Generic image of the trunk of an old tree showing signs of disease.
IA

Generic image of the trunk of an old tree showing signs of disease.

The La Pobla de Segur City Council has decided to freeze the project to transform the trunk of the emblematic plane tree in Plaça de l'Arbre into a sculpture, pending a comprehensive renovation of the area.

After gathering and evaluating various opinions and reactions from residents, the council has opted to pause this initiative. The final decision on the trunk's fate will await the execution of the future comprehensive renovation of the square, planned within the Pla de Barris (Neighbourhood Plan).
The debate surrounding this historic specimen began last September when a large branch fell onto the public street. Despite the incident's scale, there were no personal injuries. Subsequently, a technical report concluded that the tree was severely diseased and had to be removed for public safety reasons. As a precautionary measure, the branches were cut, and the trunk was temporarily preserved.
The council's initial intention, inspired by suggestions from residents, was to use the tree's remains to create a natural sculpture. However, the diversity of opinions that have emerged has led the governing team to open a period of reflection to consider all possible options once the overall square renovation project is underway.
The council has urged caution, reminding the public that despite the tree's significant sentimental value to the community, technical criteria and citizen safety must prevail in any final decision.