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Investigation Opened After Chalkwell Park Tree Collapse Kills Child

Local leaders alongside residents call for a full audit of park tree maintenance after the collapse sparked a formal investigation

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Overview

  • A seven-year-old girl died and a six-year-old remains critically injured while three others suffered minor injuries after a large branch collapsed in Chalkwell Park on June 28.
  • Essex Police have launched a formal investigation and established an online public portal to gather information on the tree’s structural failure.
  • Southend-on-Sea Council faces scrutiny over its maintenance regime after reports that the ageing cedar had long been supported by metal props.
  • A memorial service held on June 30 drew residents and councillors who paid tribute and laid flowers at a designated area in the park.
  • Parts of Chalkwell Park remain cordoned off as authorities conduct safety inspections and residents press for a systematic audit of public-space trees.