Island Lodge Tree Works, Bury
12.05.2026
As you may know, we worked alongside Greenmount Village Community on the improvement works at Island Lodge. Following completion of the this phase of works, it was great to receive some feedback about the project from Chairperson Julie Southworth 🌳
”Proffitts – Investing in Communities have been associated with Greenmount Village Community for many years and are our choice when dealing with community projects. After a substantial donation from a private funder, I asked Martin and Rachel to project manage the work for Island Lodge, which borders Greenmount and Tottington in Bury. This area had fallen into disrepair, and much needed finances were welcome.
The whole project is in two phases with the first involving upgrading footpaths, replacing wooden fences, building steps with handrails, felling diseased trees, installing new benches, and replanting hedges and native flowers. Display boards were drawn up to inform residents and visitors about the work to be undertaken, and regular meetings took place to consult with all parties involved. Their professionalism is second to none.
The second phase of this project has now started with the cutting back of trees and hedges which have caused a leak in the lodge wall. Martin and Rachel are working closely with Bury Council, who will be repairing this is due course. Once complete, we have exciting plans to further enhance this area.”
03.03.2026
The tree works at Island Lodge have now finished, and all works have gone as expected. Contractors remain on site, now tackling the vegetation causing issues at the lodge. Please continue to take care when you visit.
23.02.2026
Tree works have started… just a reminder that contractors may be on site when you visit, so please do take care 🌳
16.02.2026
Contractors will begin the Island Lodge tree works w/c 23rd February, 2026. There are signs around the lodge to let visitors know to expect contractors / vehicles, and that parts of the site will be closed during the work for safety.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and we’ll keep you up to date with progress. Currently, contractors are expected to be finished mid March, 2026 (weather permitting).
02.01.2026
Thank you to everyone who has shared comments and feedback about the work taking place at Island Lodge. We’ve summarised the key points raised, and included the details for you to take a look at below. It’s wonderful to know that the site means so much to people, and we are continuing to review the schedule of works so will update you all again soon.
Damage to wildlife and environment – Disturbing habitat of water birds and nesting birds.
We share your concern about nature and wildlife issues, and we are consulting with environmental experts to make sure that all works are being done in as considered a way as possible – including doing the work outside of nesting season. The aim of all the improvement works at Island Lodge is to make the site as safe and natural as possible, and to ensure that this is an area where wildlife / biodiversity thrives.
Project Scope
This particular project will focus only on the lodge, and the removal of vegetation. Main tree works should be tackled at the end of February 2026, and undergrowth issues will be tackled after this has been completed.
Maintaining the work once its done.
The Council will be responsible for maintaining and monitoring the land around the lodge after the works have been completed and will be monitored as such to ensure it is being carried out sufficiently.
Cutting down trees and hedges goes against climate issues.
The only trees being removed are the ones that the Environment Agency say MUST be removed to meet legal safety requirements of the Reservoirs Act 1975 to prevent damage to the lodge structure. Removing these trees will help the structure of the lodge remain strong and fit for purpose – reducing the risk of structural failure and the potential risk of properties nearby being flooded. The Council are considering how they can plant more trees, in safer and more suitable spots, close to the lodge in the future.
How will this work protect us?
Bury Council have been informed that this work is essential and are obliged to carry out the works. Engineers have advised that the trees, shrubs and plants are not making the sides more stable unfortunately – and therefore work must be done to ensure that the lodge doesn’t breach and flood the land and homes nearby. Keeping the embankments free of trees and shrubs will allow us better visibility of the structure when the monthly safety inspection is carried out.
What access will there be around the lodge whilst work is taking place.
Although access to parts of the site will be prohibited while contactors are working, the site will remain open for fishing and walkers – but please do take care if you see any contractors or machinery when you visit. We expect work to begin in later February 2026 and last up to 4 weeks.
28.11.2025
