A LANDMARK tree in Milverton is to be chopped down following safety fears.

The large robinia tree, on St Michael’s Hill, was deemed dangerous by a tree surgeon and will be felled within the next few days.

The landowners have had to apply for permission to fell it as it stands within the village Conservation Area.

The prominent tree’s fate generated a 30-minute debate at this month’s parish council meeting, said clerk Gwilym Wren.

Mr Wren said: “To lose the tree will be very sad but if it is dangerous it needs to come down.

“If it were to fall on somebody and kill them it would be horrendous.”