Source link : https://london-news.net/headline-ancient-oaks-untimely-demise-sparks-outcry-for-stronger-safeguards-in-london/
The abrupt removal of one of London’s oldest and largest oak trees has been reported to law enforcement, prompting advocates to renew their demands for improved safeguarding of these nationally historic trees.
Located in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield, the oak tree was estimated to be up to 500 years old, boasting a trunk circumference exceeding six meters. Although it was included in the Woodland Trust’s register of ancient trees, it did not hold an official tree preservation order.
The tree was chopped down earlier this month by contractors employed by Mitchell and Butlers Retail (M&BR), operators of a nearby Toby Carvery, who lease the property from Enfield Council.
The council stated that it was not notified of the intention to fell the tree and has requested the Metropolitan Police to investigate the matter.
Council leader Ergin Erbil commented: “We are considering this a case of criminal damage and have brought it to the attention of the police.”
To protect the remaining trunk, the council has imposed a tree preservation order in hopes of allowing it to regenerate.
A representative from M&BR claimed their contractors alerted them to the tree’s state of decay, stating: “The tree was trimmed after we were informed that it posed a serious health and safety concern.
“This was a necessary step to ensure the safety of our employees and patrons, to whom we owe a duty of care. Following a thorough assessment, our specialist arborists determined that the split and…
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Publish date : 2025-04-15 16:12:00
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