An old ebony tree in St George’s King’s Square will be cut down this weekend because it has become a hazard.

Bees have been building a hive in the tree that was found to be rotten and hollow by a tree surgeon.

The ebony tree is expected to be removed this weekend and will be replaced by another ‘suitable tree’ according to Mayor Garth Rothwell.

While the beehive will be relocated under the guidance of a tree surgeon and beekeeper.

Mr Rothwell said: “The initial concern arose from a complaint about a significant number of bees in the Square. Further investigation revealed that the bees were building a hive in the tree and that the tree is hollow and rotten, thereby posing a public safety risk.

”Acting in the interests of safety for our visitors, the general public and our workers, the tree will be removed and the beehive relocated as soon as possible under the guidance of the tree surgeon and beekeeper.

“Suitable restrictions will be in place during the actual removal of the tree and beehive to minimise any risks to the public and our workers.

“Once the ebony tree is removed, it will be replaced with a suitable tree since the Corporation recognises the aesthetic benefit of trees in the Square.”