THE fate of a prominent 140-year-old tree in the heart of Twyford could be decided in weeks.

One councillor told the Chronicle the village is divided over the future of the beech which dates back to 1876 and stands outside Twyford Parish Hall.

Last September a report by tree surgeons stated the tree is unsafe and barriers were erected around it although a provisional tree protection (TPO) order was granted.

However the city council planning committee overrode its tree officer last month and decided not to make the TPO permanent, which means the future of the tree lies in the hands of the hall trustees.

Prior to that meeting three people wrote in support of the tree and pleaded for it to stay, while 19 others wrote to say how they believe it is unsafe and must be felled before a branch falls on someone.

People supporting the chop point to a report in September 2015 which states the tree of its life, has branches which extend over the High Street and neighbouring properties and the village hall.

They say these could be dangerous to hall users and residents and said the tree has grown to an “inappropriate size” and that some of the branches could fall.

Some say the tree could prevent disabled people accessing the hall, and this may cause the hall to close in the worst case scenario.

A report from an arboricultural officer concluded the tree doesn't need to be felled if it is pruned and inspected every three years.

Parish councillor Richard Sellers, said: "I would say it is 50/50 at the moment to keep it or move it. I have had some people say to me it is a real shame if it goes and others say 'get rid of it', I myself am 50/50 on it."

Trustee of Twyford Parish Hall, Liz Kennett said that they want to listen to the views of villagers and absolutely nothing has been decided yet.

She said: "We are volunteers working to do the right thing for the village and the hall is a valuable amenity and we want to make sure that the hall can continue to be viable."

The trustees meet on April 26 to discuss the issue, and a public meeting could take place after this.