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Woman dies after tree branch falls at Witton Country Park

A woman in her 30s died after a large tree branch fell at Witton Country Park in Blackburn. Emergency services attended; police say the death is not suspicious.

August 12, 2025 at 06:22 PM
blur Woman killed by falling tree branch in Blackburn country park

A woman in her 30s died after a large tree branch fell at Witton Country Park in Blackburn, triggering safety reviews and public concern.

Tragic death at Witton Country Park prompts safety questions

A woman in her 30s died yesterday after a large tree branch fell at Witton Country Park in Blackburn. Paramedics and an air ambulance attended the scene, while council staff helped secure the area to keep visitors safe. As a precaution, the tree involved was being felled this morning.

Lancashire Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner. Local councillor Paul Marrow said residents have raised concerns about ash dieback and the number of dead trees in Witton Park and across the borough, calling for regular, thorough inspections to ensure park safety.

Key Takeaways

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Public safety in parks depends on proactive tree risk assessments
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Tragic events can trigger immediate precautionary actions in park maintenance
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Authorities reassure public safety while coroner processes proceed
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Community concerns link tree health to park safety and maintenance
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Local officials call for regular and thorough tree inspections
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Public communication plays a crucial role in sustaining trust after incidents
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Ash dieback and similar diseases complicate park maintenance budgets
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Investigations may influence future park funding and safety protocols

"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the family and friends of the person who has lost their life at this very difficult time."

Statement from council chief executive Denise Park about the tragedy

"As part of precautionary safety measures, the tree involved was being felled this morning."

Council explaining immediate safety steps

"The council needs to make regular, thorough inspections of the trees in the park to ensure they are safe."

Councillor Paul Marrow on park safety

"The woman's death was not being treated as suspicious."

Lancashire Police on the investigation status

The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining large urban green spaces where aging trees and disease threats like ash dieback can heighten risk. It also highlights how councils communicate safety steps to the public after a tragedy and how quickly precautionary work is undertaken. Public confidence can hinge on visible, credible safety measures and timely updates about inspections and maintenance plans.

In the weeks ahead, residents will likely scrutinize park budgets and the allocation of funds for tree health monitoring, pruning, and emergency response readiness. The case may influence decisions on how often trees are inspected and how information is shared with park users, balancing access with safety and cost.

Highlights

  • Safety in public spaces is non negotiable.
  • Ash dieback adds urgency to park maintenance.
  • Clear inspections must become the norm.
  • A tragedy should drive real change in how parks are cared for.

Public safety and park maintenance under scrutiny

The death raises questions about tree management and safety funding in public spaces. Public reaction and political scrutiny could emerge as residents seek clearer safety plans and accountability.

Authorities are expected to review park safety protocols in the coming weeks and publish findings.

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