A YOUNG birch tree that was planted by the council as part of a bid to improve the environment in Basingstoke has been 'cut down' and ‘deliberately damaged'.

The tree was planted at the rear of Cambrian Way earlier this year in Buckskin and was discovered cut down last week (March 29) by the council.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council shared the disappointing news with residents on their Facebook page, and said they were "disappointment” at the incident, which they believe was an act of "criminal damage".

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The tree was previously planted as part of improvement work in the area, following a consultation with local residents, who were all aware of where new trees would be planted.

Tom Payne, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s interim executive director of residents’ services, said: “This young birch tree was planted earlier in the year as part of an environmental improvement scheme in the Cambrian Way area of Buckskin. The council wrote to all residents in Buckskin at the end of last year providing them with a link to the plans, including where the proposed tree planting would take place. We did not received any objections to the location of the trees and it is really disappointing that someone has deliberately damaged the tree in this way.

“The birch species was purposely chosen for this location as they create limited shade and a replacement will be planted later in the year. The incident is being treated as criminal damage and has been reported to the police. Anyone with any information should contact us via landscape@basingstoke.gov.uk.”

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The birch tree belongs to the genus betula, birch trees are one of the favourite trees that are known to have white bark. They are loved by many for their pretty bark, colourful leaves and impressive height, which makes them a distinct looking tree.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police added: "We were called on Tuesday 29 March to reports of a criminal damage incident after a tree had been chopped down on Cambrian Way in Basingstoke.

"It is believed the incident took place between 10pm on Friday 25 March and 6am on Saturday 26 March.

"Anyone with information should call 101, quoting the reference 44220123991."

A replacement tree will be planted but in the meantime residents who have any information which might help are being asked to contact landscapes@basingstoke.gov.uk.

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