Measures have been implemented to protect an oak tree in Manthorpe, near Grantham, Lincolnshire. South Kesteven District Council stated that the tree had experienced significant soil compaction, with ropes previously hung from its branches for children to play.
The council has installed new wooden fencing to restrict public access, aiming to protect the tree and ensure safety in the surrounding area. A spokesperson for the authority described this as a "minimal intervention" designed to benefit wildlife and help conserve the oak for future generations.
Councillor Rhys Baker, Cabinet member for environment, noted that the tree is recorded on the Woodland Trust's Ancient Tree Inventory. Dr Kate Lewthwaite, citizen science manager at the Woodland Trust, said a historic map from the 1800s shows the oak in place, indicating it is at least 200 years old, and likely 300 years old, given the size it would need to be mapped at that time.
Dr Lewthwaite added that the protective measures increase the likelihood of the tree continuing to grow to "a great age" and remaining in good condition. Native oak trees are known to support up to 2,300 different species, with 326 of these entirely dependent on oak for survival.