A centuries-old oak tree, believed to be between 450 and 500 years old, has been cut down in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield, sparking community outrage and a police investigation. The tree was felled on 3 April 2025 by contractors working on behalf of Mitchells & Butlers, the parent company of Toby Carvery.
The ancient oak stood on council-owned land near the Toby Carvery restaurant at Whitewebbs House, land that is leased to the company. In a statement, Mitchells & Butlers claimed the tree was dead and posed a health and safety risk, prompting its removal.
However, that justification has been widely disputed. Locals and environmental experts report that the tree showed signs of life, including green shoots, raising serious questions about the decision to fell it.
Council Not Informed, Police Now Involved
Enfield Council confirmed it was not notified prior to the tree’s removal — a violation of protocol given the tree’s historical and ecological importance. The council has since reported the incident to police as a potential case of criminal damage.
In a move to prevent further harm, the council has imposed a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on the site. Authorities are also exploring options to regenerate the tree using its remains, although experts warn that such an effort may be difficult, if not impossible.
Ecological and Cultural Loss
Environmentalists have condemned the felling, noting that ancient oaks like the Whitewebbs tree provide vital habitats. Experts estimate the tree supported over 500 species of insects, birds, and fungi, making its destruction a significant ecological loss.
“This was not just a tree — it was a living piece of history,” one local campaigner said. “You can’t replace something like this.”
Petition and Public Backlash
The incident has triggered a wave of public anger, with a petition launched demanding a full investigation and stricter protections for ancient trees. Thousands have signed in support of justice for what has been dubbed the Whitewebbs Oak.
Calls are now growing for stronger legislation to protect heritage trees on leased or private land, with critics arguing that existing protections are too easily bypassed.
Mitchells & Butlers Respond
Mitchells & Butlers has not issued a formal apology but maintains that the decision to remove the tree was made on safety grounds. The company has so far declined to comment further on whether environmental assessments were carried out prior to the felling.
