We were recently instructed to carry out the removal of a large conifer at a residential property in Whalley Range, Manchester, situated within a designated conservation area. The tree had grown to an imposing size and was overhanging a boundary fence, a storage area, and a garden office, making access and safety a priority.
Due to the conservation status of the area, the client had sought formal permission for the conifer removal, which was approved by the local planning authority prior to the work being scheduled. All additional works fell below the size threshold for planning notification, and we followed best practice throughout to ensure compliance and protection of surrounding trees and property.
Main Challenge: Large Tree in a Confined Garden
The conifer presented a number of access and safety challenges. It was growing close to:
A neighbouring fence line
A garden office structure
Covered storage units and surrounding ornamental planting
Because of its position and height, we couldn’t allow any uncontrolled timber to fall. Rigging techniques were used to dismantle the tree safely in sections, protecting all nearby structures and minimising impact on the garden.
How We Carried Out the Work
Day 1 – Conifer Dismantle:
After a full site briefing and setup, our climber accessed the upper crown and began dismantling the tree using rope access and rigging.
Every section was lowered in a controlled way, using ropes, pulleys, and ground crew coordination to protect the shed, fence, and surrounding plants.
The ground team processed all brash and timber as we worked, keeping the site safe and efficient throughout the day.
Day 2 – Stem Removal, Stump Grinding & Tidy-Up:
We continued dismantling the lower stem and then moved on to grind out the stump, completing the removal fully to allow future replanting or garden redesign.
Final tidy-up was completed just as the daylight faded, and the garden was left in a clean, usable condition.
Additional Tree Work
Alongside the conifer removal, we also carried out selective pruning and minor removals, including:
Crown reduction and shaping of two Paper Birch
Light pruning to an Acer and a Prunus
Removal of several self-seeded Hawthorn saplings
All of this fell within conservation guidelines for minor works and did not require formal consent due to the size of the
trees in question being under 75mm at breast height.
Planning for Future Works
As part of an ongoing management plan for the garden, the client has asked us to return in summer 2026 to carry out a reduction of a mature Cherry tree. Woodfelder Tree Care has submitted the required planning application for this work, and we will complete the reduction once approval is granted and the timing is seasonally appropriate.
Outcome
✅ Large conifer safely dismantled and removed without damage
✅ All work carried out in line with conservation area regulations
✅ Garden office, storage, and fencing fully protected throughout
✅ Site left clean and tidy at the end of the second day
✅ Planning in place for future tree works
Conservation Area Tree Work Done Properly
At Woodfelder Tree Care, we regularly carry out tree work in conservation areas across Greater Manchester, including Whalley Range. We handle:
Planning checks and formal applications where needed
Rigging and rope dismantles in tight spaces
Minor pruning within permitted thresholds
Professional advice for long-term tree management
If you live in a conservation area and are unsure what you’re allowed to do with your trees, we’re happy to help. We can check the requirements, submit applications on your behalf, and complete the work safely and professionally.