AN old horse chestnut tree in Wallingford could be removed due to it damaging the structure of a pub.

The tree, which also has fungal disease, is causing damage to The Coach and Horses pub in Kinecroft as the trunk is putting pressure on the brickwork due to how close it is.

A tree officer from South Oxfordshire District Council has ruled that the tree does not meet the criteria for a "Tree Preservation Order" so the council does not object to its removal.

Herald Series: The horse chestnut tree also has fungal disease.The horse chestnut tree also has fungal disease.

The officer said: “It is a prominent tree with significant landscape value and contributes to the character of the area.

“A site inspection undertaken by a council tree officer found the tree to have significant structural defects that reduce its safe useful life expectancy.

“There was also evidence of direct damage to the building caused by the main stem exerting pressure on the brickwork due to its close proximity to the outer wall.”

Herald Series: A final decision has not yet been made about the tree's fate.A final decision has not yet been made about the tree's fate.

A tree surgeon from Wallingford Town Council has also surveyed the area and an ecologist will be visiting to check for birds nest before any action is taken.

A final decision about the tree will be made at a meeting of the full town council on Monday, April 25 at 7.30pm.

Councillor Steve Holder said: “We will be finding spaces suitable to plant trees to help offset. We understand the sadness this will cause.”