A mature tree has had its days numbered as developers look likely to win a battle to have it felled to allow for industrial expansion.

Planning officers have recommended that a lone ash tree should be felled to make way for a proposed expansion at Leyburn Business Park on Harmby Road.

But the news has been greeted with anger and disappointment from neighbours and local councillor Tony Pelton, who have spoken out in a bid to protect the tree.

Coun Pelton, of Richmondshire District Council, intends to hand out a campaign sheet, entitled Save The Tree to fellow councillors attending the district council's environment and planning committee meeting today.

On the proviso that the tree was in the location first, Coun Pelton said that the application for the two new industrial units on the business park should be altered in order to protect the ash tree.

An aboriculturist was brought in to examine the location of the tree in relation to the proposed development, which includes more than 20 parking spaces.

Planning officer Brain Hodges said a report from the aboriculturist stated that the tree would be adversely affected by the close proximity to the building.

Mr Hodges said: "It is further suggested that extensive surgery work would need to be undertaken to ensure that the tree was put in a satisfactory condition and thereafter properly maintained.

"This is a fully mature or over mature ash exhibiting some signs of slow decline, but there is no evidence of major disease to indicate any immediate danger to the tree."

Letters have been sent to the district council from local residents concerned about the possible felling.

Bernard Borman, of Brentwood, said felling the ash tree would be nothing more than an act of vandalism.

Neighbour Godfrey Kane said: "The removal of the tree is environmentally undesirable and if felled will have an overall adverse affect on the view and screening of the business site."

Planning officer Mr Hodges said it was with some reluctance that he recommends that the ash tree be felled.

If the committee aproves the application members are likely to agree to conditions that applicant Simon Winstanley undertakes appropriate tree and shrub replanting works along the application site's boundary.