A TAUNTON resident has raised safety concerns after a tree was cut down as part of a development on Galmington Road in Taunton.

The resident contacted Somerset Council to check whether or not the developer at this site had permission to remove the grass on the path area and asphalt it and also remove the nearby tree.

Somerset Council said they are investigating the removal of the tree and “other unauthorised works”.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they received a report “about a tree being cut down in Galmington Road, Taunton, without permission from the landowner”.

The resident said: “One of the issues is that the development is right next to a zebra crossing used by primary-aged schoolchildren.

“The area is right on top of a zebra crossing used by children, the disabled, and the elderly on a regular basis.

A Somerset Council spokesperson said: “We are currently investigating the removal of a tree and other unauthorised works on the highway.

“Avon and Somerset Police have also been informed of a potential act of criminal damage to these highway assets.”

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "We can confirm we have received an online report from a third party about a tree being cut down in Galmington Road, Taunton, without permission from the landowner.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish whether any criminal offence has been committed."