THRC was commissioned by Natural England to deliver environmentally sensitive scrub and tree clearance to facilitate new livestock fencing within the protected landscape of Goss Moor.
Tregoss Moor Fenceline Clearance
Client Brief
Natural England asked THRC to carry out scrub and tree felling clearance, along with stump spraying, on an area of Tregoss Moor within Goss Moor, to facilitate the installation of a new livestock control fence line.
The works area transitioned from light scrub — including bramble, gorse and hawthorn — into semi-mature woodland comprising semi-mature willow, birch, alder, oak and sycamore. The clearance was required to begin approximately 4 metres in from the road verge, retaining a natural tree line, followed by the creation of a 4-metre-wide clearance strip. All scrub and trees within this strip were to be removed, with stumps treated to prevent regrowth.
THRC Solution
Goss Moor is designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), presenting significant ecological sensitivities, hazards and operational constraints. Our team drew on extensive experience working in protected environments, with particular attention paid to the presence of dormice within the works area during their hibernation season.
Prior to commencement, our operatives were briefed by on-site ecologists, who maintained a watching brief throughout the works. Due to recent warm weather and an abundance of food sources, it was assessed that dormice were likely still active in the area. This allowed trees and stumps to be cut to ground level, provided works were undertaken carefully, vigilantly and in strict accordance with the agreed methodology.
To further minimise ecological disturbance, clearance was carried out in an east-to-west direction, ensuring any potential displacement of dormice would be into adjacent, like-for-like habitat.
Our experienced tree crew worked efficiently and promptly, safely navigating all the potential hazards and managing numerous site constraints including live traffic, public access, freely roaming livestock and the use of forestry machinery.
End Result
In line with the request for quotation, THRC delivered a 4-metre-wide cleared strip while retaining a 4-metre buffer zone between the works area and the roadside verge. All trees were removed and cut to ground level, with remaining stumps treated using an aquatic-compliant glyphosate pesticide to prevent regrowth.
All materials were cut, chipped and removed from site, with works completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to Goss Moor users, local residents, and the surrounding flora and fauna.