Case Study: Site Clearance for Private School Development - Robert Cunningham Construction

Location: Auckland Girls Grammar, Grafton, Auckland

Completed: March 2025

Sector: Construction

Snapshot:

Urban Arborists was engaged by Robert Cunningham Construction to remove eight mature trees at Auckland Girls Grammar. The trees were obstructing access for heavy machinery required to begin demolition and redevelopment works for the school's gymnasium.

The project was time-sensitive, with key construction milestones depending on successful tree clearance.

Scope of Work:

• Site Clearance for Heavy Machinery Access: Trees cleared to enable demolition and redevelopment of the school gymnasium

• Tree Removals: 8 trees, including silky oak, olive, yukka, and banksia

• Special Equipment Used: Hiaab crane for tree removals over existing structures

Our Approach:

2-Day Execution | 3-Person Crew

Our experienced arborists tackled the tree removals over two days, working in a highly confined and uneven site environment. The silky oak posed a particular challenge — overhanging a building and spiked fencing — requiring the use of a specialist Hiaab crane and experienced operator to lift it out safely.

Yukka trees also presented difficulties due to their weight and sharp fronds, demanding careful handling.

Health & Safety at the Forefront

As work occurred during school hours, and on an active construction site, safety protocols were paramount. Urban Arborists implemented:

• A site-specific safety plan

• Emergency response plan

• Full training and competency register

• Strict cordoning and public management procedures

Members of the public approached the site several times during the job — all safely managed by our on-site team.

Why Urban Arborists?

Robert Cunningham Construction needed a partner who could deliver:

• Punctuality

• Attention to detail

• Professionalism

• Strict adherence to health & safety compliance

  
  

With tight timeframes and a high-risk environment, Urban Arborists brought the experience, communication, and planning needed to get the job done without delays or disruptions.

The Outcome:

✅ Trees safely removed – clearing the way for heavy machinery and redevelopment

✅ Zero safety incidents – complex surroundings and members of the public were well-managed

✅ On time and on brief – keeping the construction timeline on track

From Our Director, Jed Copsey

“On construction projects like this, time is money — but safety is everything. We work hard to ensure our team is not just fast and capable, but fully aligned with the health and safety expectations of commercial clients. It’s our job to remove risk, not create it.”

Need a Tree Clearance Partner You Can Rely On?

Whether you’re preparing for construction, section clearing, or infrastructure upgrades — we’ve got the gear, the crew, and the experience to get it done safely and efficiently.

👉 Request a quote or explore our tree removal and site clearance services.