Top Garden Services were asked by a local parish council in Norfolk to remove a large sycamore tree that had become a real concern near a primary school. Its roots were lifting and cracking the nearby footpath — a route used daily by children, parents, and staff. With the risk of trips and falls growing, the council needed a swift, professional solution to keep everyone safe.
Location
Norfolk – Parish Council Tree Surgery
(We also cover Suffolk and Cambridgeshire!)
The key issues with this Sycamore tree
- Tree roots were damaging the school footpath
- Created a trip hazard in a high-footfall area
- Left unresolved, the problem would cause further structural damage
- The tree’s location near a school meant the job needed careful timing and planning
Our Approach
After inspecting the site and discussing options with the parish council, we planned and carried out a safe, tidy removal — all done outside school hours to avoid disruption.
Here’s how we handled it:
- Sectional dismantling of the tree using ropes and rigging to keep everything controlled
- Ground protection mats laid out to prevent further damage to the surface
- All timber and brash removed from the site — with 100% of green waste recycled
- Stump grinding carried out to stop regrowth and allow for safe pathway repair
All works were completed in line with BS3998:2010 arboricultural standards, ensuring best practice every step of the way.
Results
- The trip hazard was removed immediately, making the area safe for school use
- The pathway is now ready for reinstatement by the council
- Work was completed with zero disruption to the school day
- Green waste was recycled responsibly — no landfill impact
- We received positive feedback from both the parish council and school staff
Supporting safe school grounds and public Spaces
We work closely with parish councils, town councils, and schools across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire. From problem tree removals to root damage repairs and grounds maintenance, we offer safe, reliable solutions with over 20 years of hands-on experience.
Need help dealing with trees causing safety concerns near schools or public walkways?
Contact us now for a free garden maintenance quotation
