Sycamore Gap Tree to be removed from Hadrian's Wall – weeks after it was felled

11 October 2023 , 13:17

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Forensic Officers from Northumbria Police begin to take photographic evidence during their investigations (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

The Sycamore Gap tree will be removed from Hadrian's Wall tomorrow after it was felled in a 'mindless' act of vandalism.

A crane will be used to lift the 300-year-old, 50ft tree off the historic site. It will then be stored by the National Trust. Trust bosses have received thousands of 'inspiring' messages of support and suggestions regarding its future use.

The trunk will be removed 'in large sections'. It is too big to remove in 'one go', according to experts.‌ They have considered how to take it away safely without damaging Hadrian's Wall. The stump, which could generate new shoots, will be kept in place and is currently behind a protective barrier.

Seeds have been collected which the National Trust said could be used to propagate new saplings. Northumbria Police arrested a boy aged 16 and a man in his 60s after the tree was felled on Sept 27. Both have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Two people, a 16-year-old boy and a man in his 60s, were arrested and released on bail (Newcastle Chronicle)

Andrew Poad, of the National Trust, said: "We've been amazed and inspired by the offers of help and good wishes we've received from here in Northumberland, around the UK, and even from overseas. It's clear that this tree captured the imaginations of so many people who visited, and that it held a special - and often poignant - place in many people's hearts."

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Mr Poad added: "It's currently in a precarious position resting on the wall, so it's necessary we move it now, both to preserve the world-famous monument that is Hadrian's Wall, and to make the site safe again for visitors. We've explored every option for moving the tree and while it isn't possible to lift it in one go, as the tree is multi-stemmed with a large crown, we have aimed to keep the trunk in as large sections as possible, to give us flexibility on what the tree becomes in future.

"We're encouraging people to stay away from the site while these complex and difficult operations take place." There will be public consultation about what happens next at the site, which has Unesco designation and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Mike Innerdale, the National Trust's regional director for the North of England, said the public reaction to the felling showed how important it was. As we consider plans for this special tree, and this very special place, we'll also look to harness that support for trees, landscapes and nature all across the country, and use the sycamore as a symbol of recovery," he added.

Historic England confirmed Hadrian's Wall was damaged when the tree fell on it.

Jeremy Armstrong