Home / Environment / Toby Carvery Faces Eviction Over Ancient Oak Felling
Toby Carvery Faces Eviction Over Ancient Oak Felling
22 Jan
Summary
- Restaurant faces eviction for partially felling a 500-year-old oak.
- Enfield Council calls the tree destruction criminal damage and a lease breach.
- The ancient oak was ecologically significant and irreplaceable heritage.
Enfield Council has initiated eviction proceedings against a Toby Carvery restaurant for the partial felling of an ancient oak tree, estimated to be up to 500 years old. The destruction of the tree, located in Whitewebbs Park, was discovered by council workers last April. Residents expressed devastation, while the council is treating the incident as criminal damage and a "serious breach" of the restaurant owners' lease.
The council stated that the owners, Mitchells & Butlers, have "failed to engage meaningfully" and make reparations. The ancient oak, sometimes known as the Guy Fawkes Oak, is considered an irreplaceable part of Enfield's natural heritage. The Woodland Trust noted its significant ecological value, potentially exceeding that of the Sycamore Gap tree.
Deputy Leader Tim Leaver condemned the felling as a "reckless act" that severely damaged the tree and its lifespan. He demanded a public apology and financial reparations from Mitchells & Butlers, emphasizing the council's commitment to protecting the environment and heritage.
