Removal of Lime Tree Overhanging River
Tree removals often involve unique challenges, especially when dealing with restricted access and potential hazards/obstacles. One such recent job involved the removal of a large lime tree from a residential property in Norton, Malton. The tree was overhanging a river, wall, and various shrubs, and with limited access, this project required precision, control, and the expertise of a skilled and experienced team of tree surgeons.
The Challenge
The lime tree, which stood at approximately 60ft wasn’t huge by any means, but its location in a confined area with restricted access made the option of using a crane or other mechanised tree removal machinery impossible. In addition to this, part of the tree extended over a nearby river and wall, which increased the risk of damage to both the property and the surrounding environment. Of course, the last thing we wanted was to get us or our equipment wet, therefore we needed a solid plan in order to dismantle the tree in a safe and efficient manner.
Our primary objectives were:
- Safe Sectional Felling – The tree needed to be dismantled in small sections due to its location, and the pieces had to be carefully lowered to avoid any impact on the riverbank or wall.
- Precision Removal in a Confined Space – Without crane access, we had to rely on climbing and rigging to get the tree down safely.
The Process
Even though this job posted several challenges, it was carried out smoothly within one day, Here’s how we we did it:
- Climbing and Rigging Setup
The first order of the day was to set our climbing and rigging lines. We also took this opportunity to remove some of the smaller limbs and epicormic growth to improve the efficiency of the rigging. In addition to setting a main rigging line and block, we also used a second line to control the direction of the lowered pieces, in essence redirecting the limbs clear of the wall and shrubs below. - Section Felling and Controlled Lowering
Using precise and controlled cuts and rigging techniques, the stem was cleared of all major branches till only the stem was remaining. This was then cut down in sections and lowered clear of the wall where it could be safely removed from the site. - Final Clean-up
As ever, the most important part of the job, and the first thing the customer notices, is the clean-up. Most of the debris had been contained due to using controlled rigging to set everything down in one area. This made raking up and making good a reasonably simple task. The property was left in pristine condition with no damage to the garden, wall, or riverbank.
The Outcome
We successfully removed the lime tree in Norton in a single day, well within the allotted time frame and budget. The garden was left in imaculate condition and with no damage to the property the client was delighted with the professional care and service that went into the removal.
