The Sycamore Gap Tree

The Sycamore Gap tree or Robin Hood tree was a sycamore tree standing next to Hadrian's Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland. The tree grew in a dramatic dip in the landscape created by glacial meltwater and was described as one of the most photographed trees in the country.

But on the morning of 28 September 2023, the tree was felled. Initially locals thought that the tree had come down as a result of a storm, however, the authorities said they believed it was done deliberately and a result of a deliberate act of vandalism". The individuals responsible are likely to be charged under criminal damage of the Northumberland National Park’s property.

Tree Preservation Orders

The laws around Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) are complex. The TPO is a written legal order from a Local Authority used to protect specific trees or whole woodland areas from being damaged, destroyed or felled. The aim of the TPO is to protect trees that are of value to the community and anyone who intends to fell a tree subject to such an order would require permission from the Local Authority. If a tree has been felled without the permission of the Local Authority, the individual in question may be subject to civil action by the Local Authority or face charges of criminal damage.

Those who damage or fell a tree with a Tree Preservation Order without permission or in a Conservation Area may be:

• fined up to £20,000.

• prosecuted for felling without a licence.

• served a notice to replace any protected trees that have been destroyed.