AN unusual Chinese tree in Tavistock has been saved from the chop, scuppering plans for a housing scheme. The Gingko tree is growing in the grounds of West End House in West Street. Planning permission had been sought to convert the building into eight flats with car-parking — but the proposed scheme would necessitate the tree's removal. A provisional preservation order was placed on the tree last year by West Devon Borough Council's planning committee, but chartered architects Scarratt and Martin, who are connected with the conversion, raised objections to this. Four expert reports were commissioned to determine the tree's future — but the findings of these were conflicting. Three reports submitted by Scarratt and Martin found that the tree should be removed on the grounds of its poor physical condition, its position close to a sewer and road likely to need repair work, and the lack of views of the tree from nearby areas. The council's report from Mike Woolley of Gunnislake, however, argued that the tree could be seen from West Street and across the valley, and that it is a significant and interesting specimen that is locally rare. Ward Member for Tavistock North Dick Eberlie said that local tree preservation groups also disagreed on the tree's importance, but he said: 'Personally I think it's in the public interest that the tree is preserved. It's a rare and beautiful tree, particularly in the autumn when it turns a beautiful gold.' Councillors voted to confirm the tree preservation order, but planning officer Jane Hart indicated that this did not rule out future planning applications for the site.