Tottenham council promises to save 400-year-old tree

Nature lovers residing in property to rent in Tottenham will be happy to hear that a 400-year-old tree is to get some cosmetic surgery in the coming months.

The Bruce Castle Oak, thought to be one of the oldest trees in London, will have two of its large horizontal limbs propped up to lessen the likelihood of them falling.

In addition, the overall size of the canopy will be trimmed by around 30 per cent, a move which experts believe will reduce the weight loading on the trunk and prevent it from giving way.

Situated in Bruce Castle Park, Tottenham, the tree stands next to a 16th-Century manor house with adjacent Tudor red-brick tower which is home to Haringey's Museum and Archive service.

Alex Fraser, Haringey Council's arboricultural manager, said: "We aim to carry out periodic pruning to reduce the tree to half its current size - this is essential for its survival. It will be monitored after each prune to check on its vitality and response to pruning to determine future work.

"These planned works will assist in the safe, long term retention of this important tree."

Last week saw the launch of the I Love Tottenham campaign, which organisers hope will bring together local businesses and residents following the summer riots.

Posted by Andy Britten

Published 17th October, 2011

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