A 600-year-old oak tree in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, has been spared from felling after a local resident intervened. The tree, the last remnant of an ancient wood, was deemed a danger to a nearby house built 20 years ago, whose owner blamed its roots for causing cracks.
Peterborough City Council had revoked a preservation order, allowing the oak to be cut down. However, contractors were blocked last month when resident Richard Elmer, 60, stood by the trunk to protect it. Elmer has gathered 800 signatures on a petition to save the tree.
Elmer described the tree as magnificent, noting it survived Henry VIII's mass deforestation and could live another 600 years if left alone. The homeowner, who wished to remain anonymous, stated the tree is on council land and thus the council's responsibility. Insurers estimated £75,000 in repairs due to the damage.
A council spokesperson said removal was necessary to prevent further damage and confirmed that six new trees will be planted in the area to replace the oak.
