Clifton Cottage Barley Lane Exeter EX4 1TA

Proposal

G1 - Oak intertwined with Sycamore (northernmost group in the tree line) - Reduce the crown of the Oak tree by 30-40% (approximately 3 metres), and reshape to leave a balanced form. Topping cut of 6 inches diameter, and lateral pruning cuts of 4 inch. Remove the deadwood. Reduce the sycamore tree to balance with the Oak tree. Reasons - The Oak is suffering from dieback in the upper crown. It is inconclusive whether this is due to local conditions (ie lack of nutrients/exposed roots due to position on Devon bank), but a reduction in it's size may invigour the tree and promote new growth. The Sycamore is suppressed due to its proximity to other trees, and would be exposed to wind forces after pruning the Oak. So a reduction in size is also recommended. T2 - Sycamore (immediately adjacent and south in the tree line) - Reduce in height by 4 metres, and reshape to leave a balanced form. 4-5 inch topping cut, and 2-3 inch lateral pruning cuts. Reasons - Significant decay in the lower stem at 2-3 feet high. After hammer testing the area of decay, it is possible that approx 60% of decay could exist centrally. Therefore I would recommend a reduction in size to help reduce the risk of failure at the point of decay. Please accept the above as the Consultancy report provided by Hywel Davies (Exe Tree Care Ltd)