Police are investigating after protected trees were chopped down in an ancient Derby woodland.
Earlier this month it was reported how youths damaged and chopped down trees, which dated back to the 1600s, to make dens at the Chaddesden Wood nature reserve.
Derby City Council leaders say they are taking the “deliberate” vandalism seriously and are liaising with the police to determine any further actions.
The ancient woodland situated in Oakwood is owned by the council but is run and cared for on its behalf by the Friends of Chaddesden Wood committee.
The city council has confirmed that serious damage has been done to two mature oak trees, understood to be around 100-years-old.
It states that both trees have a combined value of £145,000 and are under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – a legal order to protect specific trees.
If trees under this order are cut or damaged without permission, it may constitute a criminal offence.
Dozens of other trees were also chopped down to make dens, upset volunteers said.
The local authority said investigations were continuing and urged people visiting the woodland to respect it.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, cabinet member for leisure and parks, said: “We have found serious damage to two mature oak trees, which are estimated to be around 100 years old and are protected by a Tree Preservation Order. This appears to have been caused deliberately and is being treated seriously given the trees’ environmental importance and estimated amenity value of approximately £145,000.
“We are still assessing the full extent and impact of the damage, sharing relevant information with the police to support their ongoing enquiries. Once our investigations are complete, we will consider any necessary remedial works and additional measures to help prevent further incidents. Members of the public with any information about the vandalism should report this to the council or the police.
“I’d like to reiterate the importance of Chaddesden Wood as a designated Local Nature Reserve and a sensitive habitat. While we encourage people to enjoy the space, any damage to trees and wildlife may be unlawful. We ask all visitors to treat this ancient habitat with respect so that our volunteers can continue their vital work in protecting it for everyone in Derby.”
Keith Tomlin, a member of the Friends of Chaddesden Wood committee, said he was devastated to see dozens of trees in ruin.
He said: “They have cut down trees all around here to make these dens. They have debarked two oak trees, one of which we don’t think will survive. The damage they have done is illegal.”
Derbyshire police has called for people with any information about the damage to contact the force on 101 or via its social media platforms quoting incident number 483-050426.
