This horse chestnut is still at risk at Grove Ferry Inn. It has a girth of 5 meters, meaning it is likely to be approximately 300 years old. It is huge in stature, incredibly beautiful and it’s absolutely dire news that permission was given for a 30% crown reduction on a maiden tree of this age, (which is likely to mean it is pollarded severely) with no proper survey and no ecology report. In a Conservation Area on the edge of the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) Stodmarsh nature reserve.

This tree has already lost its ancient sibling so its mycorrhizal networks will have been disrupted, and now its roots are getting compacted by cars and waterlogged due to increased flooding. There is also a pile of burnt rubbish at its base.

This pub is owned by Shepherd Neame who may have sanctioned this ecocide. Canterbury City Council must be held responsible for poor decisions (made by a Contracts Officer rather than a qualified person) and this important ancient tree must be saved and cared for properly. 

We call upon both Canterbury City Council, the pub's landlord, and Shepherd Neame to reverse this decision and save this beautiful and ancient tree.