Robbie Williams has secured permission to fell a Norway maple tree at his £17 million London mansion after it was found to be suffering from Honey Fungus, a destructive pathogen. The tree, which stands in a conservation area and is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), was considered a safety hazard due to extensive decay caused by the fungus. The local council granted permission for its removal, citing that the tree had reached the end of its “safe useful life expectancy” and should be replaced.
However, this decision has sparked frustration among Williams’ neighbors, with some expressing concern over the lack of detailed supporting evidence in the application. One neighbor questioned the absence of a qualified arborist’s report to explain the condition of the tree, while another argued that there should be a thorough written report outlining potential alternatives to felling before resorting to such action.
Williams’ application for tree removal was backed by tree surgeon Michael Goatly, who confirmed the presence of Honey Fungus. Goatly’s report highlighted the tree’s instability and noted that there is no chemical treatment available for the disease. The council agreed with these findings and approved the removal, with plans to replace the tree with a new one, though the species has yet to be determined.
This tree dispute adds to the ongoing tension between Williams and his neighbor, Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page. Page previously opposed Williams’ plans to build an underground swimming pool, fearing vibrations would damage his historic home. In the end, Williams’ builders were restricted to using hand tools, which delayed the project significantly.