Town wants to save royal tree (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Town wants to save royal tree

A PETITION has been launched to save an historic tree in Shipston, which has been identified for felling by a housing authority.

The wellingtonia in Orchard Close is thought to be 360 years old and part of an extended avenue planted to mark the route taken by the defeated King Charles after the Battle of Edgehill.

South Warwickshire Housing Association says that the tree is dead and could be dangerous, and so must be brought down. Stratford District Council has already voted to approve the work.

However, district councillor Bob White believes that the tree should be pollarded, reduced in height and given a second chance.

The councillor says his view is supported by many nearby residents, who suggested that he launch a petition to save the historic tree.

Coun White said it would be "wanton destruction" to fell the tree without looking closely at other options. "It's probably the oldest tree in Shipston. Although the top part of it is dead three parts of it is still alive and in good leaf. A lot of people in the town don't want to lose this part of their history."

He added that his petition had already been signed by more than 40 people and had been left at the town council offices in Clark House for other people to add their names.

Simon Brader, spokesman for the housing authority, said that because people had made their feelings about the tree known, other options were being considered. "There's no doubt that the tree is dying and it represents a safety hazard - we don't want it to fall on residents or their property; causing damage or injury. We would carry the liability if this happened.

"We're now looking at the report on the tree to see if there are any other options open to us - but it cannot continue as it stands, it has to be safety first."