A pair of Lime Trees in Dalmellington that have been left in a precarious state by storms and fire are to be removed.
The trees, one large, the other a 'stem' of the larger tree, overhang the river to the rear of the former Black Bull pub in the village's High Street.
Storm surges, raised water levels and a history of fires being lit at the base of the larger tree have damaged it significantly.
However, as part of the town's conservation area, more restrictions surround removal of trees.
A tree inspection showed the trees to be ready to fall, but the presence of a birds nest means the larger tree can only be felled once the birds leave the nest.
The inspection reports states: "Following raised water levels and a storm surge, the bank is substantially undercut, such that whole tree failure is now predictable.
"The north bole has a history of fires being lit at the base and the buttress roots critical for stability on the landward side are also decayed."
The smaller tree is "also severely undercut by the storm waters".
"The tree has become separated from the bank edge and is highly likely to fail in the short term."
In it report on the application, East Ayrshire Council planners state: "it is noted from the site visit that removal of the tree would have minimal impact on the amenity of the area and would ensure greater protection for the setting to the rear of the building within the Dalmellington Conservation Area."
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