An iconic tree in Ross-on-Wye is due to be cut down on Tuesday, June 19th, as it has become a danger to the general public and nearby buildings.

A public notice has been released to permit the temporary road closure of the B4260 Wilton Road. The order will prohibit the use of vehicles from outside Castle Flat for approximately 50m south of Wye Street. Alternative routes will be necessary.

The road closure is required in order to carry out the tree surgery safely, and reduce the likelihood of danger to the public, but the work is expected to be completed within a day.

Christopher Kirkham-Sandy, who owns the Old Court House Bed and Breakfast, which is where the tree resides, told the Ross Gazette that the tree is “seriously diseased.”

The removal has been signed off by Herefordshire Council and the Ross Town Council, who reportedly said that it “has to go.”Mr Kirkham-Sandy told the Ross Gazette that he will be planting a row of smaller deciduous trees in its place.