Wiltshire Council is still considering plans to axe a “beautiful” tree as part of the installation of a proposed zebra crossing.

The council has proposed to fell the “iconic” tree at the corner of County Way and Roundstone Street in Trowbridge, to make way for the upgraded crossing.

Consultants have suggested that this busy road could be a “key location” for improvements by making crossing easier for pedestrians.

This comes amidst a wider scheme to upgrade pedestrian areas across Trowbridge town centre.

But residents have reacted with anger to the plans, and a petition has been launched to “halt the council’s plans” and “preserve” the tree for future generations.

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Organiser Bethanie Afton said: “Throughout the year, this Trowbridge tree contributes to the beauty of the town; welcoming all who come in from the east.

“It helps clean the air and feed the environment. How can Wiltshire Council even consider destroying it?

“The zebra crossing causing all the trouble is planned to go almost at the roundabout on County Way.

“Surely the Council can move the zebra crossing a few feet down Roundstone Street so the tree doesn't need to come down.”

When asked about the progress of its plans for the tree and the crossing, the council said any proposals are subject to a legal consultation and public feedback is being gathered.

Cllr Nick Holder, cabinet member for highways, told this paper that the council is looking at ways of “reducing the impact” of the upgrades.

The tree in TrowbridgeThe tree in Trowbridge (Image: Trevor Porter) He said: “The current proposals are subject to legal consultation, and we are gathering public feedback.

“We are aware of the concerns regarding the impact of the proposals on the tree and we are currently working to identify measures that may be taken to reduce this impact.

“We will provide further updates in due course.”

Cllr Holder also emphasised the importance of the busy junction for traffic and pedestrians coming in and out of the town centre.

He added: “Roundstone Street has been earmarked as a key location for pedestrian improvements in Trowbridge town centre.

“Roundstone Street provides access into Trowbridge from the east and the Lovemead car park in Duke Street.

“Consultants have suggested that access can be improved for pedestrians by reviewing footpath widths, reinforcing the pedestrian route along Roundstone Street including improvements to the crossing.”