Managing Unsafe Trees at Britannia Park, Rowley Regis:
How Our Team Safely Removed 36 Poplars in Just Two Days
Poplar trees grow fast — and while they offer quick screening and shade, they’re also one of the species most likely to develop structural defects as they age. At Britannia Park in Rowley Regis, a line of mature poplars had reached a stage where they posed a clear safety risk. After a detailed inspection, it was confirmed that 36 trees needed to be removed to protect the public, nearby homes and the wider park environment.
Beechwood Trees and Landscapes was appointed to carry out the work, and our team delivered the full operation swiftly, safely, and with minimal disruption.
Why the Poplars Needed Removal
Poplars are known for:
Brittle wood
High susceptibility to decay
Shallow, aggressive root systems
Crown failure under strong winds
At Britannia Park, several signs were present — including deadwood, internal decay and lean — increasing the likelihood of branch or whole-tree failure. With footpaths, park users, fences and nearby properties close to the treeline, proactive removal was the responsible option.
Leaving these trees in place would have increased the risk of:
Falling branches injuring the public
Storm damage
Property damage along the park boundary
Future emergency call-outs
How We Carried Out the Works
The on-site team, led by Tyson, completed the full removal of all 36 poplars in just two days. This level of efficiency stems from strong planning, skilled operatives, and the right equipment for the job.
Using the Sennebogen (mechanical tree handler)
A Sennebogen tree handler was used throughout the operation. This specialised machine:
Grasps, cuts, and lowers sections of the tree in a single controlled movement
Reduces the need for climbers on unstable timber
Speeds up removal while improving safety
Minimises disturbance to the surrounding park
Allows precise handling near boundaries and structures
For large numbers of compromised trees, mechanical removal is the safest and most efficient option.
Once the trees are removed, the stumps will be treated using eco-plugs — an environmentally responsible alternative to stump grinding, particularly useful in parks and tight spaces.
What Are Eco-Plugs?
Eco-plugs are small, sealed capsules inserted directly into pre-drilled holes in the stump. They contain a herbicide that stays locked inside the wood, where it gradually stops the stump from regrowing.
Why We Use Them
Zero ground disturbance — ideal when roots run near fences, utilities or footpaths
Highly targeted — herbicide remains inside the stump, protecting surrounding vegetation
Low-impact — no noise, no machinery, no spoil
Safe for public spaces — designed to stay secure inside the timber
Prevents regrowth — stopping suckering or future stability issues
Eco-plugs are particularly effective on species like poplar, which otherwise send up aggressive regrowth if untreated.
Protecting Public Spaces Through Proactive Tree Management
The work at Britannia Park is a clear example of responsible long-term tree management. Removing unsafe trees isn’t just about dealing with what’s there now — it’s about preventing future problems, preserving public safety and creating space for more sustainable planting in the future.
