PLANS to fell a tree which is covered by a tree preservation order (TPO) have been approved.

Proposals to carry out the works to one beech tree, located at 74 Rainhill Road, have been given the green light.

The officer report said the beech tree is located within the rear/side garden area of 74 Rainhill Road.

It added: “The documents submitted alongside the application indicate that site factors, including sufficient space are impacting the longevity of the tree.

“It is recommended that the tree is replaced with a Dawyck beech, which is more suited to a small back garden.

“However, it does have the potential to grow tall and therefore contribute to the landscape and compliment the other beech trees in the locality.”

The application was approved, subject to conditions.

The conditions include that, within six months of the removal of the tree, a replacement Dawyck beech tree “must be planted and shall be heavy standard, root balled tree secured with tree stakes and ties”.

And “any trees or plants, or grassed areas which within a period of five years from the date of planting die, are removed or become seriously damaged or diseased, shall be replaced in the next planting season with others of a similar size, species and quality” unless the local planning authority gives written consent to the “variation”.