Tree roots wrecking patio - ideas for a solution?

...........with a little skill and imagination you could even build a pond around the tree - that would be different wot say @martin-f ?

 

Probably my fault for not being particularly clear. The area is a decent size; around 4m X 4m, so there's plenty of room to play with. I'm intending to form a 'zone' for cooking, eating and generally chilling out. Maybe that doesn't come through in the photo?

 

I am sure i could manage it not meaning to blow my own trumpet but i can turn my hand to most construction jobs .

 

We have a big lilac where now and again the roots lift the cobbles on the patio, so i,just cut the roots and then put the cobbles back. Sometimes I have to put sand under the cobbles to bring the level back up again, but the lilac is fine.

 

Well, I would be impressed if you lived just down the road - but Sheffield is a bit far

 

I've seen slabs that have a similar look to those at a nursery Stu.