A campaign to save a much-loved ancient oak tree in Essex has highlighted the need to win legal protection for the UK’s oldest and most vulnerable trees.
The ancient Clatterbury Oak in Clavering was under threat from an access road to a proposed housing development, but Uttlesford District Council’s refusal to approve the planning application has given the treasured local landmark a reprieve.
The Trust sprang into action after being alerted to the development and objected to the proposals, supporting the valuable work of passionate local campaigners who launched a petition to save the old oak pollard.
Woodland Trust campaigns lead Jack Taylor said the developer’s “blatant disregard for the tree was clear”.
“Saving the Clatterbury Oak is wonderful news,” said Taylor. “It is paramount that we oppose such developments and challenge attitudes that endanger our oldest and most cherished trees.
“Most of our oldest trees are not legally protected but trees like the Clatterbury Oak have witnessed hundreds of years of history, withstood all winds and weathers while providing valuable havens for thousands of precious species, locking up harmful carbon and purifying the air.
“That’s why the Woodland Trust has launched the Living Legends campaign – we want our most precious trees to have the protection they need and deserve so they can continue to thrive for future generations.”
YouGov polling carried out last year showed 83% of people in Great Britain supported giving ancient trees legally protected heritage status.
Taylor added: “What’s more, 85% of people think national government and its agencies should have responsibility for protecting them. The stats show just how much these trees mean to people.”
The Woodland Trust is urging governments across the UK to change that by:-
Protect ancient trees. Give the UK’s very oldest and most important trees legal protection – like endangered wildlife, castles and old buildings already have.
Stop the loss of old trees to development. Strengthen policy protection so that trees everywhere can grow old safe from harm.
Increase support for tree care. Make it easier for people who own and manage our oldest trees to access support to look after them.
Sign our petition at Protect Trees (woodlandtrust.org.uk)
“The Clatterbury Oak’s immediate safety is assured, but its proximity to a busy road presents ongoing challenges for its preservation,” Taylor said. “That’s why we must continue pushing for greater protections for irreplaceable trees like this.
“These national treasures should be here to stay. They deserve the same sort of protection enjoyed by old buildings and endangered wildlife – some of which can’t survive without ancient trees.
“And the people who care for them should be supported to do so.”
