A popular cedar tree outside the offices of Three Rivers District Council will be cut down this weekend after experts raised concerns it could fall.

The tree is one of two that stand at the entrance to the council offices but pre-date its construction by some time. At a meeting last month councillors were told efforts to save the tree including excavating soil from the base had failed and it would need to be removed within a month.

The tree is a popular feature with residents in the area and council leader Councillor Ann Shaw said there was "considerable interest" in the future of the tree.

She added: "There will be much upset when we start cutting it down.

"We have no choice, sadly, but to fell the tree.

"But I presume none of us wants to leave horrible gap for months and months."

Councillors voted to cut down the tree and spend £1,500 on a replacement which will be planted during the best season.

Part of the cause of the tree’s decline is understood to be the proximity of its roots to Three Rivers House - which was constructed in 1991, causing an increase in soil height at the base of the tree.