Sapling planted to replace beloved felled Sycamore Gap tree ordered to be removed

A resident's heartfelt attempt to plant a new sapling at the iconic Sycamore Gap has hit a stumbling block, as the National Trust ordering its removal over a lack of "prior permission." 

Kieran Chapman, 27, planted a new tree, aiming to restore the beauty spot back to its former glory after the ancient tree was mysteriously felled last week.

However, the National Trust quickly intervened, citing the site's status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and UNESCO World Heritage site, meaning the new sapling will have to go.

Mr Chapman explained he wanted to “restore people’s faith in humanity” after people globally mourned the loss of the famed tree, which is believed to the Britain’s most photographed tree and featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner.

He told ChronicleLive: “[I planted the tree] just because everyone was devastated about it, including myself. I planned to go and take the dog for a walk next weekend there. 

“The day before the tree was felled, I said I'm going to go to Sycamore Gap next weekend because I'm busy this weekend. 

“But I got an early finish yesterday so I thought I'm going to restore people's faith in humanity, bring a smile back to people's faces, and just give them a bit of hope.”

While he added that the tree was not “doing any harm”, it is against the law to alter or add anything to a UNESCO world heritage site without Government consent.

A National Trust spokesperson said: "We understand the strength of feeling following the events at Sycamore Gap this week - and are grateful for the many offers of support and good wishes we've received from near and far. 

“It's important for everyone to remember that the site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a globally important archaeological setting, with UNESCO World Heritage designation, and that altering or adding to it can damage the archaeology, and is unlawful without prior consent from Government.

"We urge anyone wanting to pay tribute to the Sycamore Gap tree to speak to the National Trust first. The public can leave pictures, poems and memories at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre over the weekend. 

“The National Trust and Northumberland National Park, along with other partners and local people, are making plans for the site and the Sycamore Gap tree in the future, and we will inform people as soon as we know the best way forward. 

“While regrettably we will be removing the sapling, we have spoken to the person who planted it, and are working with them to find an appropriate planting spot within the local area."

Many have called for a new tree to be planted near the stump of the beloved felled landmark, including Robin Hood actor Brian Blessed.

However, National Trust manager Andrew Poad revealed the hopeful news that the stump was "healthy", meaning experts may be able to coppice the tree, where new shoots grow from the trunk's base.

Meanwhile, Mark Feather, estate manager at the Woodland Trust, said it would "take a few years to develop into even a small tree and around 150 to 200 years before it is anywhere close to what we have lost".

"Once a tree of this age has gone, the sad truth is you can't replace them within any visible timeframe. It takes centuries," he said.

Following the mysterious felling that sent people across the country into mourning, a teenager and a man in his 60s were arrested in connection to the crime. Both have now been released on bail.