A Day’s Work in Weybridge

Last week, we were called out to a property in Weybridge, Surrey, to carry out the pollarding of an old Sweet Chestnut tree that had grown a bit too large for its surroundings. The tree stood proudly in a mature garden, but years of unchecked growth had caused it to overshadow the lawn, block sunlight, and stretch dangerously close to a neighbouring property.

The owners loved the tree and didn’t want to remove it completely — they just needed it made safe and more manageable. That’s where pollarding came in.

What Is Pollarding and Why Do It?

Pollarding is a traditional pruning technique where the upper branches of a tree are cut back to encourage controlled, healthy regrowth. It’s often used on species like willows, limes, planes, and chestnuts, which respond well to being cut back.

In this case, the chestnut was over 60 years old and had been last pollarded decades ago. The old framework was solid, but several limbs were showing signs of decay and excess weight — a risk in high winds. Pollarding would reduce that strain, rejuvenate the canopy, and extend the life of the tree for years to come.

How We Carried Out the Work

We started with a full risk assessment and inspection to check for cavities, decay, and stability in the main stem. Once everything was confirmed safe, our climber ascended the tree using modern rope and harness techniques.

Each major limb was carefully reduced and removed in sections. The key with pollarding is to maintain balance and structure — you don’t just cut randomly, you work around the tree methodically so it regrows evenly and stays strong.

We cut back to the original pollard points where possible, ensuring clean, precise cuts to reduce infection risk. The result was a solid, well-balanced framework ready for fresh growth next spring.

All arisings were safely lowered using rigging ropes, chipped on site, and removed — leaving the garden neat and tidy.

The Benefits of Pollarding

Prolongs the life of mature trees by reducing stress on limbs

Improves safety by controlling size and removing decay

Encourages healthy regrowth for a full, attractive canopy

Restores light to gardens and properties

Prevents damage to nearby buildings or power lines

When done correctly, pollarding can give an old tree a whole new lease of life. It’s a great way to keep established specimens safe without losing their character.

A Happy Customer in Weybridge

Our client was delighted with the result — they could finally enjoy more light in the garden, and the chestnut looked rejuvenated rather than hacked back. We’ll revisit the site in a couple of years to monitor the regrowth and carry out light maintenance if needed.

That’s what good tree care is about — not just cutting, but looking after trees for the long term.

Why Choose Arborlife Tree Services

Fully qualified & insured tree surgeons

Decades of hands-on experience in tree care

Local team serving Weybridge, Cobham, Leatherhead, Esher & Surrey

No VAT – saving you 20% on costs

Friendly, reliable, and tidy on every job

If you’ve got a mature tree that needs attention — whether it’s a chestnut, oak, lime or willow — give me a call. We’ll happily come out, have a look, and give you honest advice and a free quote.

Call Declan on 07775 837893
or send a message here

Pollarding an Old Sweet Chestnut in Weybridge

Oct 13, 2025