Basement Flat, 105 Middleton Road, Hackney, London, E8 4LN

Proposal

T1 – Leyland cypress (× Cuprocyparis leylandii), approximately 5–5.5m high with an estimated crown spread of approximately 4–5m, situated approximately 1.5m from the rear elevation of the property. Proposed works: Fell T1 to ground level and remove the resulting arisings. Reason for works: This vigorous, fast-growing conifer has outgrown its restricted position within the rear garden. The garden measures approximately 10.67m by 5.83m, while the tree’s dense evergreen crown has an estimated spread of approximately 4–5m. It therefore occupies most of the garden’s width and causes substantial year-round shading within the garden. The crown is already grazing the rear windows of the property. Because the tree is situated only approximately 1.5m from the rear elevation, frequent pruning is required to prevent continued contact with the building and to control its height and spread. Given the limited space available for the tree’s mature size, repeated pruning would require substantial ongoing maintenance and is not considered a suitable long-term solution. Substantial crown reduction would also be unsuitable because Leyland cypress does not reliably regenerate from cuts into older bare wood and may consequently be left permanently sparse or unsightly. The tree is currently of a manageable size for removal, but its vigorous growth means that delaying the work would increase its conflict with the building and the scale and complexity of future pruning or removal. Removal at its present size, followed by more suitable planting, is therefore considered the most proportionate and sustainable long-term solution. Indicative replacement landscaping: Following removal, the garden will be replanted with more size-appropriate, biodiversity-friendly planting. This may include a compact native tree, native shrubs and a native wildflower border. The precise planting scheme, species and positions have not yet been determined and will take account of the garden’s limited dimensions and the mature size of the plants selected.