A HARWOOD resident has been told he cannot chop down a tree outside his house, despite his pleas it is causing a tripping hazard.

Mr Woods, who lives in 3 Riding Gate Mews, applied to Bolton Council for permission to fell the cedar tree by his house.

In his application, submitted through Bolton Tree Services, he said the tree was outgrown, had caused damage to the drains and is lifting the pathway.

But after an inspection by the planning department in Bolton Council, officers said they found the tree was only just beginning to mature and there was no evidence to suggest it was instable.

They therefore refused the application on the grounds it would result in an unacceptable tree loss.

Mr Woods can appeal to the government.