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Enfield Council Pursues Legal Action Over Felling of 500-Year-Old Oak

The council accuses Toby Carvery’s parent company of breaching lease terms by removing the ancient tree without permission, seeking £1 million in damages.

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A centuries old oak tree in Enfield that has been cut down by a Toby Carvery in Enfield, London.
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Ergin Erbil, leader of the Enfield Council that owns the oak tree that had been cut down by a Toby Carvery, speaks to media in Enfield, London, on April 16, 2025.

Overview

  • Enfield Council is suing Mitchell & Butlers, claiming the felling of the 500-year-old oak in Whitewebbs Park violated lease obligations to protect the landscape.
  • The tree was valued at £1 million under the CAVAT system, reflecting its ecological and cultural significance, and potential damages could reach this amount.
  • Mitchell & Butlers stated the tree was removed due to safety concerns, citing contractor advice that it was dead and posed a risk, a claim disputed by the council.
  • A December 2024 inspection by council experts found the tree healthy and not a danger, with evidence it was growing new spring leaves before being cut down.
  • The Forestry Commission is investigating whether a felling licence was required, while the Metropolitan Police has closed its inquiry, treating the matter as civil.