Residents have expressed anger at a protection order for an Ipswich tree which they have labelled a "slip" hazard. 

In August last year, Ipswich Borough Council received a request from a resident for the protection of a Robinia tree located in front of Westwood Court, in Norwich Road, Ipswich.

Having recognised the importance of the tree, officers decided to implement a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) to the Robina tree alongside three others, two Fastigiate English Oaks and one Maple.

Following the decision, however, several residents voiced their objections, with 55 letters being received by the council against the outcome and calling for the tree to be removed — one letter of support was also received.

One resident of Westwood Court wrote: “This tree is now so big, it not only cuts out the streetlight that lights up the external pathway from the car park to the building but also blocks the light into the lounge and a few flats.

“This makes it very precarious, especially for partially sighted and those that are older with walking aids.”

Another added: “I am really angry that a provisional order has already been placed without any consultation with residents, with a follow-up letter only just received for us to object.
“This tree has so many leaves dropping, the pathway has made a number of us slip.”

Addressing the concerns, the officer report states: “All four trees soften the appearance of the Westwood Court building and contribute significantly with existing trees, to the collective tree amenity of Norwich Road, a main arterial route in and out of Ipswich town centre.”

It also goes on to add it would be reasonable for some cyclical pruning to take place in order to manage the Robina’s crown size, with formal consent having already been granted for height and width reduction.

A final decision on whether to uphold the TPO is due during Wednesday’s planning committee meeting.