A solitary tree in a market town has become the focal point of a battle between a developer and a Norfolk council.

The oak, situated on a small parcel of land, stands prominently among the houses in London Road, Downham Market.

Locals who have lived in the area have watched it flourish for decades.

Eastern Daily Press: Developers wanted to build a home on the area of gravel behind the chain fencing Developers wanted to build a home on the area of gravel behind the chain fencing (Image: Google)

 

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But last year, a bid to build a two-storey house in front of it threatened to spoil people's view.

It prompted objections from locals who were eager to not have their line of sight to the tree blocked.

West Norfolk Council agreed with locals and refused the application on the basis it would spoil the surrounding resident's enjoyment of the tree, blocking their ability to see it from their windows while also threatening to damage the tree itself.

However, the developer's dreams were dashed by West Norfolk Council, who refused the application on the basis it would spoil the surrounding resident's enjoyment of the tree, blocking their ability to see it from their windows while also threatening to damage the tree itself.

This sparked a year-long battle against the decision, with the developer appealing to the Planning Inspectorate - who has the final say on such matters - to overturn the council's decision.

Eastern Daily Press: The West Norfolk Council officesThe West Norfolk Council offices (Image: Archant � 2007)

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Michael Haslam OBE, a consultant, was brought in to argue the case, believing the refusal "did not stand up to scrutiny".

He argued the house would not significantly block the view of the tree's canopy and that the new house would "actually make little difference whatsoever to the appearance of the site".

But the government official dismissed these arguments, siding instead with the protected oak.

The Inspector said: "The Oak tree is an attractive specimen and makes a significant and positive contribution to the visual character of the area.

"The new dwelling would become the prominent feature in the street scene... and would, therefore, result in a significant and adverse change to the appearance of the site and the character of the area."