One of our city schools has a well established London Plane tree located in the external courtyard eating area. It has been brought to our attention that the pollen and leaf fibres from this tree can cause respiratory irriation and potentially exacerbate breathing issues for those with asthma etc.

While I’m relucant to recommend removing the tree or cutting back to the trunk, as it is a significant focal point and one of the few green features on an otherwise urban site, we do need to assess whether the current control measures are sufficient. At present, it is recommended to cut back during the winter months, peak pollination appears to occur around May.

Unfortunately, relocating the eating area is not a viable option, so we’re exploring whether additional control measures might be appropriate. We can post signage/ make those aware of the potential risks during pollination. 

Any advice would be much appreciated 

This is the time of year when pollen counts reach their maximum, with trees being the biggest culprits as their pollen is usually dispersed by the wind. Yes, this leads issues with hay fever including me and some people suffer worse than others but I cannot see anybody adopting a policy of the wholesale removal of most of our trees. Councils get enough grief about removing trees that damage pavements see what happened in Sheffield!