Clapham: High winds topple tree on the Common

Strong winds during the night felled trees in Clapham, including this one pictured on Clapham Common which came down last night.

Clapham Common has lost a number of trees to high winds over the course of its horticultural history.

James Cook, the son of the great explorer, was responsible for planting a number of rare trees on the Common – including the seat tree which became known as Captain Cook's tree. Destroyed by lightning in a gale in 1893, its surviving stump was replaced a number of years later by the large black poplar, just west of the fountain.

This latest tree to be toppled stood on Clapham Common South Side near The Windmill pub.

What happens to fallen trees?

Lambeth Council will prioritise clearing fallen trees that currently block paths and roads.

When the ground is less waterlogged, they will then begin cutting off the branches of this tree.

Once only the tree trunk is left, it will be moved to a safe place on the Common where it will remain whole or be cut into logs to house insects.

The aim is to improve the natural biodiversity across the Common, says the Clapham Common Management Committee, with the bugs attracting birds and small rodents.

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