Removal of a Large Cedar Tree from a Graveyard in York

We Specialise in Tree Removals in Sensitive Locations

Tree removals in sensitive locations require extra care and precision, perhaps none more so than working over old and delicate gravestones, things that simply can’t be replaced. A recent job involved the removal of a large Cedar tree from a historic graveyard in York city. The tree’s size and location posed difficult challenges for even the most competent of tree surgery teams. This Cedar tree removal in York called for meticulous planning and execution, using state-of-the-art rigging equipment and techniques to ensure no damage occurred to the site’s irreplaceable monuments.

The Challenge

Cedar trees are known for their large, heavy stem wood. This particular tree stood in a confined area surrounded by gravestones and other delicate structures. Due to the tight space and the nature of the site, every piece of the tree required careful control during the removal process. Another hazard to contend with is that Cedar branches can be brittle, which increases the risk of small branches snapping during rigging. If a crane were to be employed this can help mitigate this problem as it enables smooth lifting of limbs. However, when rigging, in some situations there can be a certain amount of swinging of the limbs, which can be enough to break off smaller branches and twigs.

Key challenges included:

1. Tight Space with Sensitive Surroundings – The graveyard was filled with gravestones, making it crucial to avoid any accidental damage while dismantling the tree.
2. Brittle Wood – Cedar branches can be prone to snapping, which meant extra care was needed during the rigging process to prevent smaller branches from breaking unexpectedly.
3. Controlled Felling – Each section of the tree had to be lowered precisely into a very tight drop zone.

The Process

The Cedar tree was successfully removed with no damage. This was achieved through a combination of protective measures, advanced rigging techniques, efficient communication, and team work. Great care was taken to ensure no damage was done to the surrounding gravestones, or the graveyard itself.

• Protection and Safety Measures
  Before any work began wooden frameworks were erected around the most vulnerable gravestones. These were primarily designed to deflect any small limbs that might fall unexpectedly during the rigging process. With these relatively simple control measures in place, we could proceed with a greater level of confidence, knowing the grave markers were shielded from any potential impact.
• Rigging and Sectional Felling
  Given the tree’s size and brittle nature of Cedar wood, we used a combination of rigging blocks, pulleys, and lowering devices to gain as much control over the descent of falling branches. Essentially this advanced rigging allowed us to smooth the fall and reduce violent action that may cause breakages of smaller branches. Additional rigging lines were used to provide maximum control, enabling the team to safely maneuver lowered limbs into the desired space.
• Managing Brittle Cedar Wood
  With control measures already in place, all that remained was to be mindful of the brittle nature of Cedar. This is where our team’s experience came into play, allowing us to anticipate and manage any potential issues.
• Final Clean-Up
  After the tree was safely removed, we carefully dismantled the protective framework and cleared the site of all arising. The job was completed with no damage to the graveyards or surrounding area.

The Outcome

I can honestly say that working around gravestones is probably my least favourite aspect of tree work. However, it does present unique challenges to overcome and a chance to further hone the overall team’s skill. Thanks to our careful planning and execution, this large Cedar tree was safely removed, once again showcasing our ability to handle delicate tree removals in even the most challenging and sensitive environments.