Tree Surgery in Ayr, Ayrshire

Crown reduction is the right approach when a tree is structurally sound but has outgrown its position — affecting light, touching buildings, or overhanging boundaries. A healthy mature tree in good condition is worth keeping: reduction takes it back to a manageable size and lets it continue growing naturally. Removal is the right call when a tree is diseased, structurally compromised, dying, or in a position where it simply can’t be kept safely regardless of pruning. John assesses the tree at the free site visit and gives an honest recommendation — he won’t remove a tree that doesn’t need removing.

If your tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is in a Conservation Area, you need consent from South Ayrshire Council before carrying out significant work. This applies to crown reduction and removal as well as other major works. The good news is that the application is generally straightforward, and if the tree poses a genuine safety risk, emergency works may be permitted without prior consent (with notification). John can advise at the site visit on whether a TPO is likely — but the formal check is done through the council’s planning portal. Work carried out without required consent can result in prosecution, so it’s worth checking before booking.

All arisings — branches, leaves, timber sections — are chipped and removed from site as standard. This is included in the quote, not charged as an extra. If you want to keep any of the timber for firewood logs, let John know and he can leave sections of an appropriate size rather than chipping everything. Stump grindings (woodchip from the stump) are left in the hole and can either be removed or used to fill and level the area — John will ask your preference on the day.