Toby Carvery’s parent company, Mitchells & Butlers Retail (M&B), is on the verge of being kicked out from their premises after an ancient oak tree, nearly 500 years old, was partly chopped down in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield, without approval from Enfield Council. The incident, which occurred in November, stirred up strong local disapproval and shock as the felling of the tree was only discovered when council workers arrived at the park.

Enfield Council has taken a stern stance, considering the act as criminal damage and has initiated eviction measures against the restaurant chain due to breaching the lease agreement held by M&B. Tim Leaver, Enfield’s deputy leader, expressed disappointment over the reckless destruction of the historic Whitewebbs oak, stressing its significance to the community and labeling the action as a breach of the lease terms.

Consequently, the council has issued a formal notice to M&B for failing to cooperate adequately, leading to forfeiture proceedings for serious lease violations. The council demands a public apology and financial compensation from M&B for the irreversible harm caused. Moreover, M&B is urged to cover the “life support” costs needed to nurture the remains of the tree, showing signs of regrowth.

The Woodland Trust disclosed that the oak tree, estimated to be between 450 and 500 years old with an impressive six-meter girth, held ecological importance surpassing the widely mourned Sycamore Gap tree of 2023. Oaks, being native trees, support over 2,300 species according to the charity.

In response to the ongoing legal actions, M&B has opted not to provide further comments to the media.