Bringing New Life to a 15-Year-Old Hedge at Hazeley Enterprise Park

For the past seven weeks, David Gannon and his teammate have transformed a 15-year-old hedge at Hazeley Enterprise Park through the traditional craft of hedge laying. Work is now completed, and the hedge is set to green up this spring, reach full density by summer, and fully mature by 2026.

The hedge laying process is more than just trimming back overgrowth. It’s a careful and skilled technique that breathes new life into the landscape while creating a functional, wildlife-friendly barrier. The process involves partially cutting 95% of the stems, laying down the main stem, and then laying the next stem on top. The hedge continues to grow as normal, and up to five new shoots grow from each cut. The team then staked and bound the laid stems to encourage healthy growth while removing invasive ivy. By laying the hedge, they’ve rejuvenated its base growth, something that doesn’t happen naturally, as hedges typically die from the bottom without proper maintenance.

One of the key benefits of hedge laying is its role in supporting biodiversity. The hedge at Hazeley Enterprise Park is now primed to provide shelter, food and nesting spots for a variety of wildlife, from birds and insects to mammals like deer, which Dave spotted while working on-site. He also enjoyed observing red kites and kestrels flying overhead, making working through the relatively mild and dry winter all the more enjoyable.

This seasonal timing wasn’t just about convenience; it’s critical. Hedge laying must happen in winter before the bird nesting season begins and before sap starts rising in the plants. By working within this window, Dave and his team ensured minimal disturbance to local wildlife while giving the hedge the best chance for regrowth.

David Gannon found his passion in hedge laying three years after retiring as a senior executive in the mobile telecoms industry. Reflecting on the project, David said:

“There’s something deeply satisfying about working with nature to bring new life to something that was slowly fading. Hedge laying isn’t just about keeping the landscape neat. It’s about creating something that will thrive for decades and support the environment and local wildlife. Knowing that this hedge will be full and healthy long after I’ve worked on it is a good feeling.”

Thanks to David’s efforts, the hedge at Hazeley Enterprise Park will be super strong, wildlife-friendly, and set to thrive for decades. An enduring legacy of sustainable growth and environmental stewardship.