Sycamore tree to be cut down

A tree surgeon has said it is ‘not in good health’ and has recommended its destruction.

There has been a concerted campaign for several years by residents at the nearby Oakleigh Heights who felt the tree was a danger.

They also felt light to their homes had been adversely affected by the tree and they were constantly having to clear up leaves

After negotiations with the owners of Brownlow House it was agreed the tree should be chopped down.

SDLP Cllr Declan McAlinden welcomed news that Lurgan District Officers of the Orange Order have agreed to fell the tree.

Cllr McAlinden said: “Though we recognise that the tree in question has been in situ for 300 years, it had been causing difficulties for nearby residents in Oakleigh Heights, whose light has been adversely affected.

“The clear-up of leaves from the tree was also approaching near-constant levels and a recent tree-surgeon’s report indicated that the tree was not in good health and may fall, causing very serious damage to nearby buildings.

“The decision by the Orange Order is a welcome move and marks a milestone in a long-standing process of building good relations between the Order and affected residents, which I have been part of,” said Cllr McAlinden.

“I would like to thank the District Officers and all those who have brought this process to a safe and satisfactory conclusion.”

At the time of going to press the Mail was unable to contact anyone from the Orange Order for comment.