Residents had differing views when a preservation order was proposed for an ‘almost iconic’ tree in a village conservation area.

The application, involving a sycamore thought to date back to at least the1970s, arose on land fronting 21 Millfield Lane, Tarporley, adjacent to steps between the road and Henry Street.

Owner David Hale served notice on Cheshire West and Chester Council of his intention to remove the tree.

The council decided it had ‘significant merit’ in the local landscape and provided visual amenity to residents and the public.

Its loss could not be justified and adequate pruning would reduce any problems.

Mr Hale and occupiers at 10 other properties objected to the proposed order while Tarporley Parish Council and other residents supported the measure.

Mr Hale argued the tree had been allowed to grow wild and was covered in ivy. It had outgrown its location and led to loss of light. Leaf litter was a slip hazard on the steps.

Speaking on behalf of 10 objectors to the order, William Clark supported the felling of the sycamore which he claimed was 60ft high and 30ft wide.

It was too big and would grow to twice the size, he feared.

Martin Davies felt the tree was an important asset to the neighbourhood and argued that although 13 residents wished to fell the sycamore, parish councillors and 27 other signatories believed it was important in the village landscape.

Senior tree officer Tim Williams said the sycamore was ‘perfectly healthy’ and ‘probably as big as it is going to get’.

Recommending confirmation of the order, Cllr Norman Wright (Con) believed the tree was an asset to the area and although it might cause a few problems it was ‘perfectly OK’.

The committee agreed unanimously that the order should be confirmed.