Outrage as ‘Formby’s Sycamore Gap’ Is Cut Down on Communal Land

Formby’s Sycamore Gap Destroyed — A Community Tree Lost Forever!

Just like the famous tree at Hadrian’s Wall, Formby has now lost a much-loved and recognisable tree on communal land — a tree many residents had come to think of as Formby’s Sycamore Gap.

This mature tree, which was healthy, safe and not overhanging any property, has been deliberately cut down and reduced to a stump. It was not on private land, did not belong to any individual, and posed no danger. It formed part of a shared green space that local residents help maintain for everyone to enjoy.

It was cut down on Tuesday 20th January and someone must have seen it being cut down as it must have taken most of the day.

This act is deeply upsetting for the community and raises serious concerns about the protection of communal land and trees in Formby. People cannot simply remove trees from land they do not own.

The incident will be reported to:

• Merseyside Police

• Sefton Council

• Formby Parish Council

Call for witnesses

If you saw or heard anything that may be relevant — including unusual activity, vehicles, tools or work taking place in the area — please contact the appropriate authorities directly.

Even small details could help.

If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can report information to Crimestoppers:

📞 0800 555 111

🌐 Reports can also be made online anonymously

We ask that information is shared with the authorities, not speculated on publicly.

These shared green spaces matter. They are part of what makes Formby special, and once a mature tree is gone, it is gone forever.

🌱 Our communal land belongs to everyone — and it deserves protection.