SAVE ONE OF THE OLDEST OAK TREES IN BRETTON, PETERBOROUGH

Situated on a public lane in Ringwood, Bretton, is an ancient Oak Tree which is one of the last standing Oaks from the original Grimshaw Woods dating back to the 14th century.

This tree has a protection order on it and is on the Ancient Trees Register. It is estimated that the tree could be 600 years old which makes it one of the oldest  trees in Bretton. 

When Barnards Way was originally built the plot of land behind the trees was not built upon (there were 2 large oaks then).  Some years later planning permission was granted to build on the land and 2 large houses were built.  Around 7-10 years ago one of the trees was felled.  No explanation was given at the time.

On Monday 28th June 2021, Peterborough City Council sent a contractor to fell the second tree.  I pointed out to the workers that the tree had a Tree Protection Order on it. The contractors told me that the council had (given themselves) planning permission to fell the tree.  I objected strongly to this action and managed to stop the work by standing under the tree.  A man from the council came out and spoke to me.  He agreed with me that the tree was healthy and was posing no immediate threat or danger to anyone or indeed the houses behind it.  The council had planning permission to fell the tree as a precaution.  The Council's insurance company are concerned that the council maybe held responsible for any root damage caused to the house(s) in Barnards way.

I objected and asked why the council could be held responsible when the people that built the house(s) or any subsequent owners could have not failed to see this old oak tree.

If the tree could be a danger why were the houses built and how/why was planning permission obtained to build them?

I am asking you please to join this petition to stop Peterborough City Council from continuing to destroy our environment. Thank you.