Flowering cherry

Thinking about the leaf fall in autumn and other detritus falling during the year onto the gravel below, I would have the tree removed. A narrow fastigiate tree would be a better alternative for your front garden but not as part of the hedge. Even some of these can get quite large, so check the height and spread carefully on several tree specialist sites. I planted an Amelanchier Obelisk last year and it is keeping to the expected proportions so far .

 

I will clear up the leaves for my compost - down to the last leaf on the gravel.

We've had the joy of blackbirds nesting in the hedge. The young are now being taught to forage - in our back garden.