Developers are set to pull down a 150-year-old Oak tree in the Crystal Palace conservation area after the council have apparantly given the go-ahead.

Residents and local councillors are appalled at the decision to pull down the tree in Harold Road, Upper Norwood, and are now campaigning to save it before it is given the chop on Thursday.

One resident, Sara Carr, arranged for a private inspection of the tree by a surgeon who claimed that it was in the best condition possible and that it could potentially survive for another 150 years.

The developers are hoping to build a set of garages on the site and applied to the council for permission to which it is believed has been approved.

Councillor Pat Ryan said: "It is quite amazing that this tree can be pulled down because these developers want something - I think it is outrageous especially when the council claim they are doing all they can to keep trees."