200-year-old oak tree may be protected due to it’s history [Video]

Recognition that certain trees contribute to the heritage of the Blackfriars-Petersville neighbourhood might save the life of a centuries-old oak.

A demolition request submitted to city hall would remove the fire-gutted heritage home at 66 Blackfriars St. and replace it with a new house that reflects the architecture of the Heritage Conservation District.

However, neighbours worry about the impact redeveloping the property will have on a massive oak tree growing on the northeast corner of the property close to the original house.

“They’re going to tear it down and make a new house. That’s fine with me,” says Aussie Sharrard who lives nearby. “I guess the main concern is the tree.”

According to a heritage report submitted to the Community Advisory Committee on Planning, an arborist has determined the tree is 27 metres (90 feet) tall with a trunk diameter of 1.59 metres (over 5 feet) and is likely 200-years-old.

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