Pruning or removal of the lowest branches of a tree. Used to increase light levels to the area beneath the tree’s canopy and to increase clearance for access purposes and/or line of sight. The remaining crown should be at least two thirds the height of the tree. Care should be taken to avoid large pruning wounds close to the main stem so to minimise the risk of decay issues.

Reduction of the height and/or lateral spread of the crown of the tree whereby the main framework of the crown will remain but with a smaller outline. Often used to maintain or reduce the size of a tree where it may have outgrown the space it has available but can also be used to help reduce mechanical stress on particular branches or the tree as a whole and to improve shading and light issues. Not all species of tree are suitable for crown reduction and there is a limit to how much a tree can be reduced.

Removal of smaller/tertiary branches, throughout the canopy. Used to create an even density of foliage, which allows more light to pass through the tree and reduces wind resistance and weight. This method is primarily used on broad-leaved species and may be required regularly, especially on species prone to epicormic growth.

Reduction of selected lateral branches of a tree in close proximity, or already encroaching on buildings. Used to prevent contact and damage to buildings and property.

Removal of the top of a young tree to encourage multistem branching. This method should be repeated on a regular basis, retaining the initial pollard point each time.

Removal of significant dead, diseased or failing limbs and branches from within the crown of a tree. Although deadwood is an important part of the ecosystem and plays a key role in sustaining biodiversity, it is advisable to remove any that pose a safety risk to pedestrians and/or nearby buildings or property.

Felling is the removal of a tree in one section and can only be carried out where space and safety allows. It is a process that requires great skill and technical ability.

Where felling is not possible, removal of a tree is carried out by dismantling it in a number of sections. This can include the use of specialist rigging equipment, if required.

Installation of cable bracing to provide support to large and heavy limbs of trees with a high amenity value. Used to ensure safety and to prolong the life of the tree.

Removal of a tree stump by using a specialist machine that grinds the stump into small chippings.

The chippings are used to back fill the hole left by the machine. This method is used if an area is to be replanted, turfed or cleared for alternative use.

Where the stump can remain, but regeneration is not desired, the stump can be treated with Ecoplugs.

This kills the stump and leaves it to rot away in situ.

Regular or one-off hedge and shrub cutting and pruning. Different species require trimming at different times of year, some more than once. Advice can be provided, if required.

Although the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 doesn’t stipulate dates, it is advisable to avoid any hedge work during bird nesting season (March to August). However, if works are required, a Wildlife Risk Assessment will be carried out prior any cutting to ensure that no nests are disturbed.

Advice, sourcing and planting of trees and hedging. There are a few exceptions to the rule, but the optimum time to plant is between October and March.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) are issued by local planning authorities to protect individual trees or woodlands. A TPO can be placed on any tree or hedgerow tree, but not a hedgerow itself. The order makes it an offence to cut down, uproot, prune or damage the tree/s in question, without first obtaining the Council’s consent.

Conservation Areas are areas of land that have been awarded a protected status to ensure that their features and heritage are preserved. As with a TPO, consent must be sought prior to any works commencing.

Full checks are made as part of the quotation process to identify any TPOs and Conservation Areas, and so that any necessary applications can be made.

If permission is not sought from and granted by the Council, it may lead to prosecution.