The tree is in a sound and healthy condition and, by reason of its prominent location, contributes significantly to the appearance and character of the area. The local planning authority is not satisfied that there are any reasons for its removal that are sufficient to over-ride the importance of retaining this amenity role. If consent were to be granted for its felling, it would set an undesirable precedent making it difficult to resist similar requests to fell other trees in the vicinity, to the overall disadvantage of the locality.