AN ICONIC tree in the centre of Ammanford is to undergo surgery.
The cedar, sited next to the bus station on College Street is around 100 years old and is to be cut back for safety reasons.
The tree is subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and has an expected life span of between 135 and 150 years old.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s conservation section commissioned a specialist survey for the tree following concerns that some branches could become loose and fall.
It is now recommended that some of the long branches are cut back in a way that mimics natural storm damage.
Residents have been warned however that the first stage of pruning is likely to leave the tree looking far from aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The alternative would have been to fell the tree.
Executive board member for conservation Councillor Meryl Gravell said: “This tree has local cultural and historical value, and it would not be desirable to fell it.
“However, for safety reasons we have to cut it back; although the first stages will not be attractive it will preserve the life of this tree.”
The work is due to be carried out on August 9.
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