What happened to the 500-year-old oak tree in Whitewebbs Park?

The Toby Carvery restaurant chain's contractors cut off the tree's branches without authorization in April, causing widespread public outrage.

How can the Whitewebbs oak tree be saved?

Experts suggest that a £10,000 sprinkler system could help the tree's regrowth and increase its chances of survival.

What is Toby Carvery's role in the Whitewebbs oak tree incident?

Toby Carvery is facing pressure to fund the regeneration efforts for the ancient tree, which is the subject of a legal dispute with the landowner, Enfield Council.

Home / Environment / Sprinklers Could Revive 500-Year-Old Oak Tree Damaged by Toby Carvery

Sprinklers Could Revive 500-Year-Old Oak Tree Damaged by Toby Carvery

10 Nov, 2025

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Summary

500-year-old oak tree in Enfield, UK had branches cut off without authorization
Toby Carvery restaurant chain under pressure to fund tree's regeneration
Experts say a sprinkler system could help the tree's regrowth for only £10,000

Sprinklers Could Revive 500-Year-Old Oak Tree Damaged by Toby Carvery

In a concerning incident last April, the Toby Carvery restaurant chain faced widespread public outrage after its contractors cut off the branches of a 500-year-old oak tree without authorization. The ancient tree, located on the edge of a Toby Carvery car park in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield, has now shown signs of regrowth, sparking hope that it can be saved.

Experts say the tree's trunk is alive and re-sprouting, but its long-term survival is uncertain. Arborist Russell Miller suggests that a relatively inexpensive sprinkler system, costing around £10,000, could be the key to preserving the iconic oak. The system would help reduce the risk of the new shoots drying up or failing to generate enough energy to sustain the root system.