An historic tree that has stood in a Dorset town for over a century has been saved from being cut down.

The sycamore tree, which is believed to have stood in East Street in Wareham for around 150 years, has had an application to be felled refused by Dorset Council.

The council had considered the application by developers after a survey had found that the tree was rotting from the inside.

Despite this, and after residents came together to save the tree, the tree will remain in place.

A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: “The mature tree, which is protected by law, stands within the town centre’s conservation area. There are few large trees in the area which heightens the tree’s importance.

“The council’s tree team inspected the tree to assess the evidence and evaluate the public amenity issues.

“There is a cavity and decay within the tree, but the experts believe that felling is not necessary, and that more proportionate remedial works could be carried out.

“The tree team concluded the removal of the tree at this time is premature and will erode the distinct character and appearance of the area.”

The decision comes after many residents came together during the application process to voice their objections to the felling of the tree.

Lorna Way, a resident of East Street, was one of the people to respond to the planning application.

She said: "I object to the sycamore tree being removed. It's been here for years, is a lovely tree and is of value to East Street. If safety is an issue then it should be reinforced in some way but definitely not removed.

David Skinner, another resident from East Street, added: "losing this tree would  detract from this area and so this application should be rejected. 

"The tree is an important feature for this part of Wareham."

A spokesperson for Wareham Town Council said: ‘’Wareham Town Council heard from a number of members of public at its planning and transport committee meeting on Wednesday (December 20) evening, and although it does not have any expertise in respect of arboriculture, it did consider the expert’s report in depth.

“The public mood regarding the tree is extremely divided and contentious. The committee felt that as the report specified that there were valid alternatives to cutting the tree down completely, it would be prudent to take preventative action to try and save the tree before a decision to cut it down be made.

“In addition, the committee considered that it would be prudent to plant two further trees to commence growing whilst an attempt to save the established tree was made.

"This provides a sensible succession plan, and it should be recognised that growing trees provide greater environmental benefit than well-established trees.’’