Concern over cracks in tree sculpture in Northside park

CRACKS are starting to form in a sculpture at one of the Northside’s top amenities, according to a candidate for the local elections.

The sculpture in a 10-metre tall tree – ‘Peace Tree or 'Tree of life' – is located at the corner of St Anne’s Park, Raheny, at the junction of Clontarf Road and Watermill Road. 

Cathal Haughey (FF) said: “A few years ago, Dublin City Council decided this 200-year-old dying Macrocarpa tree should be transformed into something special. 

“They commissioned Tommy Craggs (sculptor) to transform the tree into a work of art that has since been enjoyed by visitors, tourists and commuters every day who visit and drive by.

“The tree contains sculptures of many of the animals and wildlife of the surrounding St Anne's Park and Bull Island.

“However, people have started to notice a crack forming in the middle of the famous tree. 

Mr Haughey contacted the Parks Department at Dublin City Council to raise this issue. 

The city council said the cracks are considered natural and inevitable and it would “not be possible to fill the same”. 

“The cracks will open and close as the tree dries and swells with the changes in the weather,” said the spokesperson. 

“This is a natural sculpture with a limited life expectancy which we hope to extend for a good number of years with regular treatments with finishing oils."

Mr Haughey described the sculpture as an amazing piece of art and said it has become a landmark for the area. 

“I know people are proud to have this sculptured tree that attracts visitors from far and wide and is seen by commuters every day,” he said.

“When I noticed the crack start to form I thought it should be raised with the council as in fairness they were the ones who took the initiative to turn the tree into what it is today. 

“I'm glad the Parks Department have confirmed they will be continuing to work on the tree to restore it for as long as possible. Hopefully we can enjoy this piece of art for years to come.”

Mr Haughey, a grandson of former Taoiseach Charlie Haughey, will be contesting the Local Elections in the Clontarf Local Electoral Area.