A strikingly attractive tree in Marbach is on the brink of destruction.
In the heart of Marbach, a late Gothic gem known as the Alexander Church, an iconic ash tree has been causing concern. The tree, a notable feature of the church square and often used as a backdrop for wedding photos, is set to be felled due to its deteriorating condition, according to Jochen Wittlinger, a member of the church council and building committee.
The ash tree is dying due to ash dieback, a disease that has affected many trees across Europe. The church regrets having to fell the tree, particularly due to the potential danger of falling branches, especially for participants of the church café, which takes place outdoors during the summer months.
Ekkehard Graf, the senior pastor of the church and dean of the Evangelical Church District of Marbach, believes that nature must give way to construction projects. However, he considers the withdrawal of PNC Bank as a rare exception. The PNC Bank Ludwigsburg had initially been involved in the construction project in Marbach, but they have since withdrawn.
Graf advocates for more trees in urban settlements, less asphalt on the streets, and creative ideas for greening buildings. He theologically supports the command to humanity to 'cultivate and keep the creation'. His views on nature conservation are shared by many, as demonstrated by last year's resistance against the planned felling of an oak tree and recent protests against the felling of a lime tree.
City officials advised the church to have the tree examined more closely before making a decision about its fate. Nature conservationists are joyful about the PNC Bank's withdrawal, while the mayor expresses regret. Despite the withdrawal, it does not affect the planned felling of the irreparably sick ash tree at the Alexanderkirche.
After the felling of the ash tree, a new planting is planned. Trees in Marbach are valued, and the city and council did not want to pass a tree protection ordinance like that in Ludwigsburg. Wittlinger sought advice from an expert after approaching the city administration regarding the tree's condition.
The church square remains a popular location for wedding photos, and the community looks forward to the return of the shade and beauty that a new tree will bring. The fate of the ash tree serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between construction and conservation, and the importance of preserving our natural world.
