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Crane-Assisted Sycamore Removal Near Dunbar

Crane lifting sections of timber

Sectional Dismantling Over Water with 10m Crane Lift

We were instructed to remove two mature sycamore trees near Dunbar that were overhanging a pond and obstructing our client’s panoramic coastal view. Both trees were heavily biased toward the water, making straight felling impractical.

Because a newly installed fence line sat directly in front of the trees, conventional winching wasn’t an option. A controlled sectional dismantle was required to manage the weight safely and avoid damage to the boundary.

As an experienced team delivering both domestic tree surgery and commercial tree surgery, we assessed the safest and most efficient method before works commenced.

Crane-Assisted Dismantling

The trees were climbed and dismantled in sections. To manage the heavily weighted stems over the pond, we deployed our tractor-mounted crane with a 10 metre reach and a 2 tonne lift capacity.

Tractor with crane comes in useful for lifting heavy timber out of gardens and over walls and fences

Each section of timber was securely slung using rated lifting chains before being cut free. The crane allowed us to lift and control heavy trunk sections away from the water and surrounding boundaries, avoiding the risk of timber entering the pond.

This approach is particularly effective when access is restricted or sensitive features are present. It allows us to lift heavy timber cleanly over walls and fencing, reduce manual handling, minimise site mess, and complete work faster, which can also reduce overall cost.

Our in-house plant capability, including specialist lifting equipment available via our forestry plant hire service, means we can deliver technically challenging removals without relying on external contractors.

Safety, Planning & Compliance

All works were carried out in line with our strict health and safety procedures. Lifting operations were planned and executed by our trained operatives using certified equipment and rated lifting accessories.

Thomson Trees is proud to be an Arb Approved Contractor, SSIP accredited, and CHAS accredited company. Our team holds recognised industry qualifications and operates to professional arboricultural standards.

Given the proximity to water, environmental considerations were also factored into the work in line with our environmental policy and wildlife and ecology policy.

Tree Removal in Dunbar and East Lothian

We regularly carry out specialist tree surgery across East Lothian, including Dunbar and surrounding coastal areas. You can view more recent projects on our case studies page or check our areas covered page.

If you require crane-assisted tree removal, sectional dismantling, or advice from qualified tree consultants, please contact us.

If you’ve worked with us before, we’d really appreciate your feedback on our review page.

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