The Challenge - Protected Sycamore Tree Compromising a Stone Wall
Our client in Avoch, located near Inverness, contacted us after a large Sycamore tree began compromising their retaining wall. The tree’s roots had extended beneath the stone structure, causing visible displacement and raising concerns about further damage to the wall and surrounding property.
The tree was protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), meaning no work could begin without formal approval from the local council. The client chose to manage the TPO application themselves and contacted The Highland Arborist once approval had been granted.
With the tree growing directly above an outdoor tap and situated near a retaining wall, a controlled dismantling approach was essential to avoid any structural damage.
Our Solution - Precision Rigging & Wildlife-Conscious Dismantling
Upon receiving clearance, we began by conducting a full site and wildlife inspection, ensuring compliance with UK conservation laws before any work commenced. As no wildlife was present, we moved forward with a sectional dismantling approach.
Key services delivered:
- Site-specific risk assessment
- Section-by-section dismantling using rigging techniques
- Careful drop-zone management to protect the wall and tap
- Eco plug installation to prevent future regrowth
- Full clean-up and responsible waste management
- Eco plugs were used in the stump to prevent suckering or regrowth, ensuring long-term resolution without future disruption to the site.
The dismantling was carried out using rope access and rigging equipment, supported by a chipper on-site to process green waste efficiently. All work was performed in accordance with BS3998 (British Standards for Tree Work) and under full public liability insurance.
Learn more about our Cutting and Dismantling Services in Inverness.
Before-and-After Overview
Before:
- Large Sycamore tree towering over stone wall and outdoor utilities
- Root system visibly compromising the wall’s structure
- TPO in place requiring council clearance
- Limited space for felling due to adjacent structures and slope
After:
- Tree removed safely in sections, with no damage to the wall or nearby buildings
- Outdoor tap and piping left untouched
- Root regrowth prevented with eco plug treatment
- Area restored, with all waste responsibly cleared
Results & Outcomes
✔ No structural damage during or after dismantling
✔ Safe removal of a protected tree, post-council approval
✔ Long-term regrowth prevention
✔ Wildlife protection laws followed throughout
✔ Full customer satisfaction achieved
Services Featured in This Project
This project highlights our specialist ability to remove trees in challenging locations, particularly those under protection orders or growing near buildings and infrastructure.
Related services included:
- Tree Dismantling with Rigging Techniques
- Wildlife Inspection and Legal Compliance
- Eco-Friendly Tree Removal and Waste Processing
- Stump Treatment to Prevent Regrowth
See Wood Chipping & Waste Removal
Tree Work Across Inverness & The Highlands
At The Highland Arborist, we provide professional tree cutting, dismantling, and tree health care services throughout:
- Inverness
- Avoch
- Dingwall
- Muir of Ord
- Black Isle
- Beauly
- Rural and estate properties across the Highlands
We work with private homeowners, rural estates, and commercial contractors, always with a focus on safety, sustainability, and legal compliance.