A COUNCILLOR warned fellow members yesterday that they would be setting a dangerous precedent if they agreed to protect a large oak tree.

Councillor William Salvin told fellow members of Teesdale District Council's development control committee (south) that there should be significant reasons for imposing a tree preservation order (TPO).

Commenting on a temporary preservation order placed on a mature oak tree at Arlaw Banks Farm, near Whorlton, Coun Salvin said: "I do find it extraordinary that we have an isolated hedgerow tree in a rural location which has been singled out for special treatment."

Planning officer Andrew Bishop said he had spoken to the owners of the tree, who had told him they had no intention of felling it, but wanted to trim the branches so that agricultural equipment could pass it without obstruction.

He said: "It is a tree that stands out. It is a lone tree and can be viewed from across the dale. It would be a shame to lose it and it is important to the local residents. I am certainly not saying we have to put a TPO on all such trees."

Members voted in favour of the preservation order.