December 17, 2025

Managing Ash Dieback for the National Trust

We have recently completed a tree safety project for the National Trust along the boundary between National Trust land and a neighbouring caravan park.

Following inspection, a number of ash trees were identified as presenting a risk in the event of failure. The majority were affected by ash dieback, with most exceeding the 50% infection threshold, making removal the most appropriate option given their proximity to the caravan park.

Works were carried out with a strong focus on safety and minimal disruption. Using our excavator fitted with a tilt rotator, we were able to utilise a range of attachments including tree shears and grabs. This allowed us to fell and handle trees in a controlled manner, reducing the risk to surrounding trees and limiting ground disturbance.

Ash trees affected by ash dieback along the boundary of National Trust land and a caravan park.
Excavator with tilt rotator and tree shear felling ash trees safely near a caravan park.
Tree removal works carried out with minimal disturbance to surrounding woodland.
Care was taken to keep damage to other trees to an absolute minimum, preserving the wider tree line and landscape. Brash was stacked neatly within the tree line to provide habitat, or responsibly burned where suitable. Trunks and timber were extracted efficiently using our own tractor and timber forwarding trailer and taken to storage for onward use. Ash dieback continues to present significant challenges, particularly in high-risk locations such as boundaries and public areas. Working in partnership with the National Trust, we were pleased to deliver a practical and sensitive solution that improved safety while respecting the environment. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to careful, efficient woodland and tree management in challenging locations.
Neatly stacked brash along a woodland edge following tree felling operations
Tractor and timber forwarding trailer extracting ash timber from woodland.
Completed tree safety works along the boundary between National Trust land and a caravan park

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