Tree Pruning, Reductions & Removal

Big tree removal in Milton Keynes and the surrounding area

Removing a large tree

Large, mature trees demand specialist planning. We handle permissions, safety and sectional dismantling to protect your home and garden, then leave everything clean and tidy. Serving Milton Keynes, Bedford, Aylesbury, Northampton, Buckingham and wider areas.

Do I need permission to remove a big tree?

If your tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or sits in a Conservation Area, you must obtain consent before work starts.

  • Conservation Areas: submit a Section 211 notice at least 6 weeks before work. Work can proceed sooner if the local authority confirms consent. GOV.UK »
  • TPO trees: apply to the council, which typically decides within up to 8 weeks. Planning Portal »

Free check: we’ll verify TPO/Conservation Area status for you and manage the paperwork.

Nesting birds: when “not now” is the right answer

All wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected by law. We carry out pre-work checks, and if we find an active nest, we pause and reschedule. This protects wildlife and protects you from legal risk.

How we remove large trees safely

We follow BS3998:2010 Tree Work, Recommendations, using methods that minimise risk to people and property. Read more here »

Our typical process:
  1. Site survey, utilities and access checks.
  2. Rigging plan and protection of nearby structures.
  3. Sectional dismantling with rope rigging or crane lifts for confined spaces.
  4. Banksman and exclusion zones for safe ground operations.
  5. Controlled lowering, chipping and timber removal.
  6. Tidy site handover and waste transfer compliance.
What about the stump?

You can grind, leave to decay, or retain as a feature, depending on replanting plans, roots near services and access. We’ll recommend the right option during your survey. Explore your options here »

Why homeowners choose Browns
  • Qualified, careful, courteous, working to BS3998.
  • End-to-end service: permissions, safe removal, stump options, full clean-up.
  • Local and responsive across Milton Keynes, Beds, Bucks, Northants and Herts.
  • Family-run with long-standing reputation for neat, respectful work.
FAQ's

How long does consent take?

Conservation Areas require 6 weeks’ notice. TPO applications typically take up to 8 weeks once validated. We manage submissions and keep you updated.

Can you work during bird nesting season (March to August)?

Yes, but only if no active nests are present. We inspect before work and pause if we find one, then return when it’s lawful and safe to proceed.

Do you follow an industry standard?

Yes, all work is planned and executed in line with BS3998:2010 Tree Work, Recommendations.