A tree at the centre of a preservation battle, looks likely to be brought crashing down to make room for industrial expansion.

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

But the news will be greeted with anger and disappointment from residents 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 environment and planning committee meeting today.

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

A tree expert 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 Brian Hodges said a report from the expert stated that the tree would be adversely affected by the close proximity to the building.

He 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 signs of slow decline, but there is no evidence of major disease to indicate any immediate danger."

Letters of concern have been sent to the council from residents about the felling of the mature tree.

Nearby neighbour Godfrey Kane said: "The removal of the tree is environmentally undesirable, with overall adverse affect to the view and screening of the site."

However, Mr Hodges said it was "with reluctance" that he recommended that the ash tree be removed.

Committee members are likely to agree to conditions that applicant Simon Winstanley undertakes appropriate tree and shrub replanting works along parts of the site's boundary if building permission is granted.

Digby Angus, of Brentwood, strongly opposes felling the ash.

"That tree is more than 100 years old and should be saved - there are precious few mature trees left," he said.

"I can't see why they need to bring it down.