Rooted to the spot

This ancient sweet chestnut tree has been reliably estimated to be over 200 years old. This means it was very likely to have been planted here when the land it grows on became the domain of the nearby gentleman's residence built in 1800. Massive and rugged in girth, with branches like wrestlers' arms, it seems likely to remain rooted in its sheltered spot until such time as age and weather bring it down.

Not so the Bethnal Green mulberry . This even more ancient tree, said to be over 400 years old and used to supply leaves for the silkworms of the Huguenot weavers, stands in the grounds of the former London Chest Hospital, and is a treasured local landmark. The site is to be redeveloped for a gated community of luxury flats (some promised to be "affordable") and the tree is in the way. Despite being formally classified as a Veteran Tree (of "great age, size or condition and potentially exceptional value for wildlife in the landscape or culturally"), and in the face of enormous local protest and a petition signed by over ten thousand people , the only concession Tower Hamlets Council have made is to undertake to move the tree, an upheaval which it is very unlikely to survive. To insist that the development be moved a mere 10 feet to spare the tree would jeopardise the massive profit they stand to make.  They say the tree will be 'saved' by moving it. 
Incidentally, the address of Tower Hamlets Council Chamber is Mulberry Place.

If you want to see/ read more about the Bethnal Green mulberry, this  this excellent blog  has the story and,  if you scroll down, links  about the history of the tree  and the saga concerning its fate.