The iconic Sycamore Gap tree, located close to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, is set to be removed in sections by specialists using a crane. The tree, which is about 150 years old, was chopped down on the evening of 27 September or morning of 28 September. Experts spent a considerable amount of time exploring every option for moving the tree in one piece, but the decision was taken to remove it in multiple sections after it became clear that the tree was too big to be lifted in one go. The stump of the Sycamore Gap tree has been protected, and its trunk will be stored safely at an unspecified National Trust property. It is not currently known what the trunk will be used for in the future.
The tree was a well-known UK landmark and was made even more famous in the hit 1991 movie, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. It was also a focal point for hikers, walkers and photographers due to its striking location in a dramatic dip in the terrain. The National Trust is planning to involve the public in attempts to find the best way to pay tribute to the tree over the coming weeks.
Police in the area have confirmed that an investigation into the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree is ongoing. A 16-year-old boy and a man aged in his 60s who were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage have been released on bail.
The National Trust has confirmed that seeds from the tree have been collected by specialist propagators at its Plant Conservation Centre, which could be used to grow new saplings. The National Trust has thanked everyone for their patience and has reassured the public that the future of the stump of the tree will be given careful consideration
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