Mitchells & Butlers, the owner of Toby Carvery, is facing eviction from its Whitewebbs Park site in Enfield after partially felling a 500-year-old oak tree without permission. The council, which leases the land to the restaurant chain, has begun legal proceedings seeking forfeiture of the lease, citing a clear breach of the agreement.
Enfield Council issued a formal notice in November and is pursuing action at Edmonton County Court after Mitchells & Butlers refused to apologise or offer compensation for the damage. The tree, known locally as the Guy Fawkes oak, suffered significant harm and its lifespan has been drastically reduced.
Deputy council leader Tim Leaver condemned the act as reckless, stating it shocked and angered the community. He demanded a public apology and financial reparations, including reimbursement for the council's legal costs. The council is also urging the company to fund life-support measures for the tree's remains, estimated at £10,000.
Wicked Uncle Toys managing director Michael O'Shea has offered to cover the costs of installing a tank and sprinkler system to try to save the tree, but the scheme requires Mitchells & Butlers' cooperation. The company has so far failed to engage meaningfully with the council.
The Forestry Commission is expected to publish the results of its investigation into the unauthorised felling in the coming weeks.
