A 100-FOOT high tree that towered over Abingdon for decades has been felled as part of the Old Gaol redevelopment.

The Chinese tree of heaven, thought to have been growing for 50 years, was the fourth tree axed by Cranbourne Homes as part of the development – despite a pledge in its planning application to keep “key trees”.

Neighbour Sonia Lightfoot, who sold land to the developer, said she only went ahead with the deal because of assurances healthy trees on the site would not be felled.

She said a number of small trees had been chopped down in April.

The following month, a Vale of White Horse District Council tree specialist inspected the tree of heaven, saying it would survive despite damage caused to its roots by contractors excavating the underground car park being built to service the new Old Gaol development.

Mrs Lightfoot said Cranbourne Homes had failed to protect the tree.

On Thursday, the council approved its felling. It was chopped down on Monday. Cranbourne has refused to comment.

Mrs Lightfoot said: “It was, without doubt, one of the finest trees in Abingdon. It could be seen from the bridge as you come into the town. I am totally disappointed.

“If I had thought the tree would have been felled, I would not have parted with the land.”

Mrs Lightfoot said now the tree had been taken away her privacy had gone.

She added: “It is supposed to be a greenfield site but there is now hardly a tree left.”

The district council, which chose Cranbourne Homes as its developer for the site, said the tree had to be cut down because the roots were wrapped around concrete blocks and pipework that formed part of the Old Gaol’s foundations.

The council said a specialist, commissioned by Cranbourne, had decided the tree would deteriorate significantly and should be removed to prevent it collapsing.

Council leader Tony de Vere said: “Unfortunately the report makes it clear that this tree should be removed as in its current weakened state it could pose a danger to neighbouring properties and the remaining roots will need to be removed before construction can be carried out.

“We will ensure that, at the appropriate time during the redevelopment of the Old Gaol site, the tree will be replaced on the site by another suitable, native species of tree.”

  • Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as tree of heaven, was first brought to Britain from its native China in 1751. Although beautiful, it is often considered an ecological threat because of its fast growth and prolific seeding.