A community’s anger following the chopping down of an iconic tree could have been avoided through better communication.
A Fife Council report into the felling of the King’s Tree in Markinch admits that mistakes were made by the local authority when balancing public safety with the need to share information.
The historic beech tree was cut down by council staff after it was found to be diseased, with its branches presenting a danger to public safety.
However, the issue caused uproar in the town, with some residents angered by the lack of consultation by the region over its decision.
Local councillor John Wincott said that while it was apparent that the diseased tree needed to be removed, more should have been done to inform the community.
“It’s a unique set of circumstances,” he said at a meeting of area councillors.
“What constitutes a big issue that all councillors need to know about and what does not?
“Every councillor is dealing with issues that not every councillor in that ward knows about.
He continued: “This tree was dangerous. If it had hit a car or worse then we could have been having a very different conversation.
“The right thing was done, but the communication was the problem. It has been a learning experience for council officers.”
Markinch residents were in uproar after the mature beech tree was chopped down in March.
The tree had historical significance and was planted by Girl Guides more than 80 years ago to mark King George V’s silver jubilee.
Inspections by Fife Council staff earlier this year ascertained that it was 70% dead and could pose a safety risk.
However, the haste to remove the local landmark angered some individuals, who claimed that decision should have been communicated better by Fife Council.
Councillor Bill Brown, chairman of the Glenrothes area committee, said: “It’s good the committee had the opportunity to hear exactly what led up to the removal of this important tree.
“Clearly lessons have been learned here. I’m reassured there will be better communication with councillors and the public in the future.”