Alistair Hardaker | Image: Overlooking the regrowing Sycamore Gap stump on Hadrian's Wall | © National Trust Images / Annapurna Mellor
Tree shows new shoots up to three feet tall three years after illegal felling.
The National Trust has revealed new photos of the Sycamore Gap tree, showing new signs of growth three years after it was illegally felled.
Aerial images now show the stump at the site of the tree growing new shoots of up to three feet tall.
The tree, adjacent to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, has been encouraged to regrow with reducing soil compaction around the roots and limited human disturbance.
Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust at Hadrian’s Wall said: “These flourishing shoots are really encouraging and show that the special measures we’ve taken – are paying off.
Since the tree was felled, the National Trust has worked with partners and local communities to celebrate the tree’s legacy. A series of artworks by artist Shona Branigan were created, inspired by the tree’s unique fingerprint.
First artistic response to felled Sycamore Gap tree goes on display
Elsewhere, its Trees of Hope initiative saw 49 saplings from the tree distributed to communities across the UK.
Felled Sycamore Gap tree lives on in saplings planted across UK
More recently, Helix Arts and George King Architects were selected to create The People’s Tree, a new commission using wood from the felled tree.
Poad continued: “We’re monitoring the tree closely and, over time, our rangers will manage it depending on how it develops. But for now, we’re filled with hope by the way nature is taking its course.”
