By Tony Grew FromBBC News Published15 April 2025
The cutting down of an ancient oak tree in north London is being investigated by the police.
The remains of the oak, estimated to be up to 500 years old, were discovered by council workers last week in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield. An emergency tree preservation order has now been imposed on the base of its stump.
The tree, with a girth of 6.1m (20ft), was a nationally significant pedunculate oak and listed on the Woodland Trust’s national ancient tree inventory.
Enfield resident and member of the Guardians of Whitewebbs group, Benny Hawksbee, said “the tree belonged to Enfield and to our national heritage – I am devastated”.
Police confirmed they had received a report of criminal damage to the tree – depicted here before its felling.
The leader of Enfield Council, Ergin Erbil, said they were treating the matter as criminal damage and had reported it to the police.
He added:
“We have now placed a legal protection (Tree Preservation Order) on the tree and are looking at ways to help it grow back. We will work closely with the police as they continue their investigation into this matter.”
The Met Police confirmed it had received a report from the council.
Jon Stokes, director of trees, science and research at the Tree Council, said the felling of such a “magnificent” tree was shocking.
He added: “Ancient oaks can live up to 1,000 years old and are as precious as our stately homes and castles. Our nation’s green heritage should be valued and protected and we will do everything we can to achieve this.”
Andrew says:
“It is sometimes possible to work on protected trees. After all, they occasionally require pruning or other important maintenance to ensure that they can continue to thrive, just like any other tree.
Work to protected trees always requires an aboricultural report to accompany a planning application to the relevant Local Authority to seek their permission, and this is all part of the service from Primary Tree Surgeons Ltd”.
For advice or a quote, call Andrew on 07771 883061 or 01256 817369, or email him: Andrew@primarytreesurgeons.co.uk