We were contacted by a client in Wythenshawe who had a large, mature Hornbeam that had become difficult to manage. The canopy was extremely dense, blocking out a considerable amount of natural light and leaving the garden in near-permanent shade. There was also minimal clearance underneath the tree, which restricted how the space could be used.

The client wanted to keep the tree, but reduce its dominance and improve light levels and usability in the garden.

The Brief

Following an on-site assessment and discussion, we agreed on the following works:

• Lift the crown by approximately 1.5 metres to improve clearance and headroom beneath the tree

• Reduce the crown height and spread by 1.5 to 2 metres to bring the tree back in proportion with the garden

• Thin the crown by 15–20% to reduce density and allow more light to pass through

This would help strike the right balance between maintaining a healthy tree and making the space more practical and enjoyable for the client.

Permission Checks

Before carrying out any work, we needed to confirm whether the tree was subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or if the property was within a conservation area — both of which would require permission from the local authority.

We contacted Manchester City Council on the client’s behalf. Within 24 hours, we received confirmation that there were no TPOs in place and that the property was not in a conservation area, meaning we could proceed without the need for a planning application.

We regularly carry out these checks for clients as part of the service, to make sure all works are compliant with current regulations.

Carrying Out the Work

This was a well-structured tree and a satisfying job for the team. The Hornbeam had plenty of natural form to work with, allowing for a balanced reduction and careful thinning. Using rope access and standard climbing techniques, our team carried out all works in accordance with BS3998:2010 (Tree Work – Recommendations).

We reduced the crown height and spread by up to 2 metres, lifted the canopy by around 1.5 metres, and thinned the crown by approximately 20% to allow more light to filter through. All cuts were made carefully to minimise impact on the tree’s health and promote future growth in the right areas.

The work opened up the garden significantly, improving light levels and creating a much more usable space beneath the canopy.

All waste was removed from site and the garden was left clean and tidy.

Outcome

The finished result was a lighter, more open garden space, with the Hornbeam now better proportioned and more manageable. The reduction and thinning maintained the tree’s shape while significantly improving conditions on the ground.

The client was pleased with the outcome and felt the garden was now far more enjoyable to use throughout the day.

Need Help Managing a Tree?

If you’re unsure whether you need permission to carry out work on a tree, we can help. We check Tree Preservation Orders and conservation area status for properties across Greater Manchester — usually within 24 hours.

If planning is required, we can also handle the application process:

• Conservation areas: Any tree with a stem diameter over 75mm (measured 1.5m above the ground) with a conservation area is protected. A six-week notification period applies.

• TPO-protected trees: Formal consent must be obtained from the local authority, with decisions typically taking around eight weeks (though this can vary).

Whether you’re trying to improve light, regain space, or reduce the size of a mature tree, we offer practical, professional solutions. Contact us to arrange a site visit.