This is the sight that greeted visitors to Kenwood after English Heritage chopped down 23 trees next to the old dairy cottage this week.
Having fought successfully to save three much-loved copper beeches next to the dairy, many Heath lovers are again up in arms – saying they did not expect so many other mature trees to be felled.
Solicitor John Hunt, 65, a member of the Heath and Hampstead Society, said: “It’s a scene of devastation and I think the whole idea was absolutely misconceived.
“It’s criminal. They have chopped down trees that are bigger than most people expected, that’s why it’s been such a shock to the public.”
English Heritage has felled the trees to restore “historic” views from the dairy. Following a public outcry, it revised original plans to chop down 26 trees including the copper beeches.
A spokesman said: “We talked to local residents about our plans, listened carefully to feedback and responded to their concerns. Nearly 200 people took the time to comment on our proposals, and the vast majority were satisfied with our position.”
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