Centuries-old Frome oak tree is saved from felling

A veteran oak tree on Westwood Drive has been saved from being cut down after Somerset Council refused the planning application earlier this month. 

The tree, which is under a Tree Preservation Order, is estimated to be around 300 years old. The application to remove the tree was made following a claim that it was causing subsidence and structural damage to a neighbouring house.  

Many local residents objected to the proposal, citing the tree’s impact on the environment, a loss of heritage and the aesthetics of the area. Frome Town Council objected to the tree being cut down, saying that evidence submitted did not conclusively prove that the English oak tree was the cause of damage to the property. Objections were also raised by Green Party Somerset councillor Martin Dimery, who represents Frome, and MP Anna Sabine. 

In Somerset Council’s reasons for refusal, the case officer stated that felling the tree would be ‘excessive’ and may not stop the influence of the tree on the soil below building foundation level. It also said the felling was ‘unnecessary’ and ‘not essential’ for the repair work on the property and that other solutions exist that do not require the felling of the tree. 

The authority has also cited the fact that the tree is protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) which protects specific trees or woodlands from deliberate damage or destruction. 

Local heritage tree specialist Julian Hight, who strongly objected to the felling of the historic tree, said, “I am absolutely thrilled to hear that the veteran oak on Westwood Drive has been saved. Unlike our historic buildings, our heritage trees, living links to history and biodiversity hotspots, have little or no protection.” 

He added, “It is great to see that Somerset Council’s only saving grace – a TPO – has in this case won the day. I have no doubt that the large number of public objections helped sway the balance and congratulations must be given to the Somerset planning committee for standing firm and refusing the application to fell this majestic tree.” 

Pictured: MP Anna Sabine with residents campaigning to save the tree – taken before she was MP.