The removal of a maple tree in downtown Duncan has been delayed after protesters entered the working site Friday morning.
The beloved tree was scheduled for removal Friday, after it was deemed unsafe.
About a dozen people and one dog sat around the tree for almost two hours to ensure it stayed put.
The tree, which supporters say is ancient, is located in the lot at the Island Savings Centre on James Street. The removal of the maple tree will also make room for a parking lot.
The Cowichan Valley Regional District said the Island Savings Centre Commission will be considering legal action and recovery of costs concerning the issue.
The CVRD noted the delays have resulted in approximately $6,000 in additional costs, not including significant staff time.
It added that there will be no further public meetings to discuss the removal of the maple tree.
In June, protesters fought back by chaining themselves to the tree and claimed the Cowichan Valley Regional District had no right to cut it down.
On Wednesday, The Island Savings Centre Commission announced the tree would be cut down on Friday and parts of it would be incorporated into the new landscape.
