Residents win first round in battle to save 100-year-old Sussex oak tree

The healthy oak – in Acorn Avenue, Cowfold – was due to face the axe yesterday (Tuesday September 3) after its roots were blamed for causing subsidence at a nearby house.

But residents gathered around the much-loved tree and contractors employed to fell it halted planned works after agreeing ‘alternative options may not have been fully explored.’

Villagers maintain that the ancient oak is not to blame for the subsidence and are calling for a solution to be found that protects both local homes and also saves the tree. Hundreds of people, including Horsham MP John Milne, have signed a petition. See bit.ly/4eavehy

Campaigner Gabi Barrett said the tree is close to a play area for small children. “For a lot of people it is a very special place.”

She added: “The tree is situated beside a large pond and is believed to shelter protected species including bats and great crested newts, both of which are safeguarded under UK law.”

She said the oak tree is on land owned by Cowfold Parish Council but neither it, nor an insurance company which is seeking the tree’s felling, had produced habitat surveys.

Residents are urging authorities to press the insurance company to construct a root barrier instead of felling the tree so that both the oak tree and the house can be protected.

Mark Haddock, principal consultant for Connick Tree Care, who were due to fell the tree yesterday, said: “CTC are not in the business of tree removal unless where totally necessary. I can assure you that our ethos has not altered and the preservation of trees is at the forefront of our philosophy.”

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A spokesperson for relieved residents said: “We welcome today’s decision to withdraw from the contract. Connick Tree Care has reflected their strong commitment to ethical business practices and environmental responsibility, prioritising the protection of endangered species. We are delighted with their wise decision.”

Cowfold Parish Council has been approached for comment.