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The Southend Council planning committee is recommending the permanent protection of a 150-year-old London plane tree named 'Chester' following a community campaign. The tree is located on Chichester Road, next to a site approved for a 14-storey residential tower.

Developers had planned to remove Chester citing highway safety concerns. Public support included nine letters highlighting the tree's environmental value and importance for carbon capture and biodiversity.

Council officers confirmed the tree's exceptional condition and its positive contribution to the area. If approved on Wednesday, Chester will receive long-term statutory protection.