Wareham's Ancient Saxon Site in Jeopardy

Submitted by Milica on Fri, 2003-02-21 20:30
Purbeck Daily Echo: Hundreds of elm trees are being removed to save Wareham's ancient Saxon walls from damage. Over 200 diseased elm trees are being cut down in Wareham, England to save the ancient Saxon earth walls from possible destruction. The trees have grown up from the walls and the root systems could cause irrevocable damage to the structure.

Built between 700 and 800 CE, the earth walls are one of the most complete examples of Saxon wall-building in England and one of the best examples outside Scandinavia. The site is owned by Rempstone estate of Wareham and is leased to the District Council.

Plans are to remove the most diseased of the trees first and then repair erosion. Beech trees will be planted along the roadside.