400 year old oak tree to be cut down as part of roadworks scheme

A 400 year old tree is to be cut down in Northamptonshire- despite thousands petitioning to save it.

The tree, known locally as the Three Oaks has been under threat from improvement works around the A45/A6 roundabout in Higham Ferrers.A £24 million upgrade of the busy Mill junction is being carried out.

Thousands of people have already signed a petition to save the Three Oaks.

However Highways England say experts have completed investigation works to see whether the tree could be safely retained but after studying the roots of the tree they have decided that it could be a danger if it's not removed.

Highways England say discussions are under way to see if the wood from the Three Oaks could be used as carved park furniture/equipment or put to similar good use.

They have announced that up to 1,500 trees will also be planted as part of the scheme.