A Challenging Sycamore Pollard in Hathersage
Marsh Tree Care Ltd. – Creative Solutions, Expert Results
Recently our team at Marsh Tree Care Ltd. took on a particularly challenging sycamore pollard in the heart of Hathersage. The tree had suffered historic fire damage, leaving a significant wound on the main stem. After a thorough assessment, it was clear that a full pollard was the safest and most responsible way to manage the tree and prevent future failure.
But the real challenge wasn’t just the tree — it was the location.
The only route for removing the brash was straight across a beautifully kept garden, and with the ground already soaked from recent rain, we knew that traditional dragging or barrowing would cause unnecessary damage. That’s where a bit of creative thinking (and a lot of rope skills) came into play.
After planning the job in detail, the team set up a rope‑based zipline system to transport the brash cleanly across the garden. This approach meant:
- No churning up the lawn
- No damage to borders or planting
- No heavy foot traffic across the wet ground
- A safer, more efficient workflow for the team
The result? A successful pollard, a protected garden, and a brilliant display of teamwork and technical rigging.
We’re incredibly proud of how the crew handled this one — combining arboricultural expertise with a bit of ingenuity to deliver the best outcome for both the client and the tree.
🎥 Check out the montage from our social media to see the epic rope skills in action.
