Tree Work Completed at Wickham Water Meadows for Wickham and Knowle Parish Council
June 5, 2025

Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd recently completed a significant tree management project at Wickham Water Meadows on behalf of Wickham and Knowle Parish Council. This job involved the removal and safety management of 25 trees and included a range of services such as tree felling, dead wooding and crown reduction.

Wickham Water Meadows is a much-loved public space used by walkers and nature enthusiasts.  Like many wooded areas, it requires regular maintenance to ensure the safety of the public while supporting the long-term health of the environment. This project was focused on making the area safe following a review of trees that had become hazardous or unstable over time.


Tree Felling and Removal


Following an initial survey, 25 trees were identified as needing work due to structural issues, disease or dead wood.  In several cases, full tree felling was necessary to remove trees that had become too damaged or dangerous to retain.

Our team carried out all felling work in a controlled and professional manner, taking care to minimise disruption to surrounding trees and footpaths. Tree removal is always completed with safety as the top priority and we work efficiently to ensure the site remains accessible throughout.


Dead Wooding and Crown Reduction


Not all trees needed to be removed. In many cases, we carried out dead wooding which involves removing dead or dying branches that pose a risk of falling. This helps reduce the chance of injury to the public and prevents potential damage to nearby paths or structures.

Crown reduction was also carried out on a number of mature trees. This process helps to reduce the height or spread of a tree’s canopy which can relieve pressure on limbs and reduce the risk of failure. It also helps to maintain the overall health and structure of the tree while ensuring it remains stable in open areas.


Using MEWPs for Difficult Access


Some of the trees that required work were not safe to climb due to decay or structural instability. For these, we used Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) to access the canopy safely. This equipment allows our team to carry out work at height without needing to climb the tree which is particularly important when dealing with trees in poor condition.

Our operatives are fully trained and qualified in the use of MEWPs which are essential when dealing with complex or high-risk tree work in public areas.


Supporting Biodiversity with Habitat Piles


Once all work was complete, we left the wood waste in stacked habitat piles on site. This is a simple but effective way to support local biodiversity by providing shelter for insects, small mammals and birds. Rather than removing all arisings, habitat piles allow the material to remain part of the woodland ecosystem.

Leaving waste in this way also reduces the environmental impact of the job and aligns with our commitment to responsible and sustainable tree surgery.


Trusted by Parish Councils and Local Authorities


This project at Wickham Water Meadows highlights the full range of services offered by Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd. From tree felling and crown management to the use of MEWPs and environmental care we offer complete support for local councils, estates and private clients.

All work is completed to BS3998 standards by our fully qualified and insured team. We take health and safety seriously and our experience working on both public and private land means we can manage jobs of all sizes with confidence.

Whether you need a one-off tree removal or ongoing grounds maintenance we are happy to help. We also offer tree surveys and inspections to help you identify any risks before they become a problem.


Contact Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd


If you manage land or are responsible for public spaces and need reliable tree surgery services get in touch with Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd today. Based in Bishops Waltham and working across Hampshire we provide professional and affordable tree care services to homeowners, councils and businesses.

What Does a Tree Surgeon Do?

April 22, 2025
What Does a Tree Surgeon Do? When most people hear the term tree surgeon , they often imagine someone simply chopping down branches or felling trees. While that is part of the job, the role of a professional tree surgeon is far more involved. Tree surgery is a skilled profession that requires both physical strength and expert knowledge in tree biology, safety techniques, and the proper use of specialist equipment. At Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons , we provide a complete range of tree surgery services in Hampshire . This includes everything from careful pruning to full site clearances. If you are wondering what a tree surgeon really does, here is an overview of the key responsibilities and services offered. Tree Pruning Pruning is one of the most common tasks carried out by a tree surgeon. It involves selectively cutting back branches to encourage healthy growth, improve the overall shape of the tree or prevent branches from becoming a hazard. There are various pruning techniques, depending on the tree and the intended outcome. At Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons , we offer formative pruning to help young trees develop a strong structure, crown lifting to increase clearance beneath the tree, and crown thinning to allow more light to pass through. We also carry out crown reduction , which reduces the overall size of the canopy. Each of these techniques requires an understanding of tree species and how they respond to different types of pruning. Tree Removal Sometimes a tree needs to be removed. This might be due to disease, structural instability, storm damage or simply because it has outgrown its location. Tree removal is not just about cutting down a tree and walking away. It often involves assessing the safest method of removal, especially in confined or residential areas. Our team is trained in sectional dismantling, which means we remove the tree in manageable parts using ropes and pulleys to avoid damage to nearby buildings or gardens. We also use modern climbing and rigging techniques when access is restricted. For straightforward jobs, we can carry out felling from the base. Stump Grinding Once a tree has been removed, the stump can remain as an unsightly and sometimes hazardous obstacle. Stump grinding is the process of removing the remaining tree stump using a powerful grinder, which turns it into wood chippings . This allows you to reuse the space, whether you are laying a new lawn, planting something new or preparing the ground for landscaping. At Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons , we provide stump grinding for all sizes of tree stumps, including those in hard-to-reach places. We remove the stump below ground level to prevent regrowth and to discourage pests and fungi from colonising the site. Hedge Trimming Hedges require regular maintenance to keep them healthy and attractive. Tree surgeons are also skilled in hedge trimming , using the correct tools and techniques to ensure a neat finish and healthy regrowth. Whether you have a boundary hedge that needs annual trimming or an overgrown hedge that needs reshaping, we can help. Our team works with both formal and informal hedges. We can carry out a one-off cut or provide regular hedge maintenance to keep your garden looking tidy all year round. Tree Surveys and Inspections Tree surgeons are often called upon to assess the condition of trees, particularly if there are safety concerns or planning applications involved. We provide professional tree surveys and inspections for homeowners, landowners and commercial clients. This involves checking for signs of disease, decay or structural weakness and advising on any necessary work. If you are managing a woodland or a site with multiple trees, we can offer ongoing monitoring and maintenance planning to help you keep everything in good order. Emergency Tree Work Storms, high winds and other unexpected events can lead to fallen or damaged trees. In these situations, a quick response is essential to keep people safe and prevent further damage. We provide emergency tree work for dangerous or fallen trees throughout Hampshire. Our team is on hand to make the area safe, remove damaged branches or dismantle trees that are at risk of collapse. We are experienced in working in difficult conditions and always prioritise safety for both people and property. Site Clearance Whether you are preparing for a construction project or looking to reclaim overgrown land, we offer site clearance services that include the removal of trees, shrubs and other vegetation. Our machinery and manpower mean we can handle large or small areas efficiently while disposing of all green waste responsibly. Why choose Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons? All the work we do is carried out by fully qualified and insured professionals. We take great pride in delivering high standards of work with a friendly and reliable approach. Safety and care for the environment are always central to what we do. So if you are looking for expert help with any aspect of tree surgery in Hampshire, get in touch with Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd. Whether it is a single tree in your back garden or a large estate, we are here to help.
Image of tree in the park as an example of crown lifting.

What is Crown Lifting?

April 2, 2025
Learn how crown lifting improves access, light, and tree health. Expert advice from Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons Ltd.
A large ash tree with sky backdrop

How to Spot Ash Dieback and What to Do with It

By Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons • March 2, 2025
Ash trees are an important part of the UK landscape, lining our roads, our woodlands and playing a crucial role in local ecosystems. However, a growing threat to these iconic trees is Ash Dieback, a deadly disease caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It has been spreading across the UK and as homeowners, gardeners, or landowners, it’s important to know how to spot it and what actions to take. This blog aims to help you identify Ash Dieback and understand the steps you should follow if you find it on your property. What is Ash Dieback? Ash Dieback is a disease that primarily affects ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior), weakening them and eventually causing them to die. The disease was first spotted in the UK around 2012, although it had been present in Europe for a longer time. It spreads via the spores of the fungus, which infects the tree’s leaves, branches and bark. This disease can be particularly damaging because it affects both mature and younger trees and in severe cases, it can lead to complete tree loss. Ash Dieback thrives in moist conditions and the infection typically spreads through wind, water, or insect activity, making it difficult to control once it has taken hold. Symptoms of Ash Dieback If you suspect Ash Dieback might be present in your ash trees, it's important to know the signs. There are several main symptoms to look for, and they can appear at different stages of the infection: Leaf Symptoms : One of the earliest signs of Ash Dieback is the presence of dark lesions on the leaves. These spots start as dark brown or black and spread, causing the leaf to wither and die prematurely. The leaves may also have a distinct curling or shrivelling appearance. Lesions on Branches : Over time, infected trees develop lesions or dark streaks on their branches. These lesions are often visible on the smaller branches first and can spread as the disease progresses. They might be sunken or can appear as blackened areas on the bark and the bark often cracks, leaving the tree vulnerable to further infection. Dieback of the Crown : One of the most telling signs of Ash Dieback is the dieback of the tree’s crown (the top part of the tree). This often starts with the smaller branches and spreads downward, resulting in a thinning canopy. If you notice an increasing amount of dieback in the upper part of your tree, it’s a clear sign that the tree is infected. Stem and Bark Symptoms : As the disease progresses, the bark may begin to crack and split. In severe cases, the tree’s main stem will show signs of decay or the tree may lean significantly as the structural integrity of the trunk is damaged. Dead Trees : Unfortunately, in many cases, trees infected with Ash Dieback will eventually die. This may happen over a few years as the disease works its way through the tree, but the timeline can vary depending on environmental factors and how bad the infection is. What to Do If You Spot Ash Dieback If you think you have spotted Ash Dieback on your property, taking immediate action is needed to protect both your trees and the surrounding environment. Here’s what you need to do: Assess the Severity : Examine the tree carefully. If the tree is young or the infection is widespread, it may not survive. However, some trees can survive the disease with proper care, especially if only part of the tree is affected. Consult a Tree Care Professional : If you notice the symptoms of Ash Dieback or are unsure of the diagnosis, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional. The experts at Bishops Waltham Landscaping and Tree Care can carry out a thorough assessment and provide guidance on the best course of action for your infected trees. They can also safely remove trees that pose a risk to your property or the public, ensuring no further spread of the disease. Prune Infected Branches : If you catch the disease early, it might be possible to prune infected branches to help slow the spread of Ash Dieback. However, this should only be done by professionals to ensure proper techniques are used and the pruning tools are sterilized to avoid transferring spores to other trees. Remove Infected Trees : In many cases, infected trees may need to be removed, particularly if they pose a risk to nearby structures or public safety. Diseased trees are more likely to become unstable, and fallen branches or toppled trees can cause damage to property or injury. Bishops Waltham Landscaping and Tree Care can help with safe and efficient tree removal, using appropriate machinery and techniques to minimise disruption. Disposal of Infected Material : Proper disposal of infected material is essential to prevent the fungus from spreading. Infected leaves, branches, and wood should not be composted or left in open areas. It is crucial that infected plant material is either burned or disposed of in a way that prevents contamination of healthy trees. Preventative Measures : While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Ash Dieback, proper tree care can help improve your trees’ overall health, making them less susceptible to disease. This includes maintaining proper soil health, watering and ensuring the tree has enough space to grow. Monitoring and Follow-up : Once action has been taken, it’s important to continue monitoring the trees in your garden or on your land. Early detection of any new signs of the disease can make a significant difference in how well the situation is managed. How Bisho ps Waltham Tree Surgeons C an Help? At Bishops Waltham Tree Surgeons , we specialise in providing expert tree care and tree surgery in Hampshire , i ncluding the identification and management of Ash Dieback. Our experienced team can carry out detailed inspections, provide advice on the best course of action and offer professional tree removal or pruning services to ensure your property stays safe and your trees remain healthy. Remember, Ash Dieback can be a serious threat to our ash trees, but with early detection and the right steps, we can manage it and protect our landscapes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Bishops Waltham Landscaping and Tree Care if you have concerns about your trees or need help managing Ash Dieback.