A 13-METRE tall oak tree is set to be removed after experts confirmed it is becoming unsafe.

Trustees of the Straight Road Community Centre in Prettygate, Colchester, undertake a programme of maintenance on the trees in the grounds with the two oak trees subject to testing every three years.

During the latest examination late last year, the tree overhanging the bus shelter has been deemed "at increased risk of failure" and after taking advice from tree surgeons, trustees have decided to remove the tree.

A spokesman for the community centre said: "This decision was not taken lightly and we are now considering our options to make the most of the open space at the centre.

"This will include planting some mature trees at the appropriate time of year and may also include further works to the area which is currently rather scruffy and unkempt.

"The work will take place during the second week of the Easter school holidays but the centre will still be open to hirers in the evenings.

"Relevant traffic management measures will be in place at times during the work but disruption will be kept to a minimum."