Will tree save Duke of Hamilton? Pub clings to hope

Published: 01 July, 2010
by DAN CARRIER

A 50-foot high ash tree could be an unlikely saviour of a historic Hampstead pub.

The Duke of Hamilton in New End is due to shut at the start of September after its owner, Wellington Pub Company, served notice on Michael and Mary Wooderson, the landlords who have run the pub for more than two decades. 

The company wants to turn the 300-year-old pub into two luxury four-bedroom homes.

But now an ash tree in the former stableyard at the back of the pub is set to become the subject of a preservation order – meaning plans which would involve cutting down the tree could yet be dismissed by councillors on the planning committee.

Hampstead Town’s Conservative councillor Chris Knight, who applied to have the order put on the tree, said: “The tree is a vital part of the streetscape.”

He added: “The pub has a social significance, and is a vital part of the fabric of Hampstead.”

More than 300 objections to the plans, including a letter from Hampstead and Kilburn Labour MP Glenda Jackson, are backed by a 500-strong petition, handed in at the Town Hall yesterday (Wednesday).

The owner has not made an official com­ment but is understood to claim the pub is not as busy as it used to be. 

Campaign for Real Ale North London organiser John Cryne said: “Does Hampstead really need two more houses or does it need vital amenities such as the Duke?”