A large cedar tree in the heart of Malvern's conservation area has been felled

Part of Como Road was closed to traffic while skilled tree surgeons carried out the work yesterday (Thursday).

The tree was in the grounds of a house on the corner of Como Road and Victoria Road, part of the former Hillstone School campus.

Malvern Hills District gave the go-ahead to chop down the 150-year-old tree after an expert warned that it could fall at any time.

The first signs of instability were spotted three years ago and the landowner reduced its height by chopping off limbs.

Despite the work, concern was renewed this winter when cracks appeared in the lawn and a nearby wall.

An independent tree expert said although the tree appeared healthy, it was moving and in danger of falling.

His conclusion was echoed by MHDC landscape officer Chris Mayes, who called it a "significant threat".

He said: "Although it is very sad to see such a significant tree lost from the skyline, we have to accept that trees do have a limited life expectancy."

The owner has agreed to plan a new tree in keeping with the conservation area.

Roger Hales, of Victoria Road, said: "It's a beautiful old tree, but if it's unsafe, I suppose it has to come down.

Susan Crowdy, of Victoria Road, said: "There's not much you can actually do when a tree becomes unsafe like that. It's a shame because you have to look after the landscape for the future."

Daryl Dickson, of Victoria Road, said: "It's a big tree, but to be totally honest I think it's ugly."