Massive leggy Hebe

My brother has cleared some of his garden today, and when he asked if we wanted two big shrubs I thought it would be a good bit of instant screening.

However...

They are really tall and leggy, about 7 foot tall! And they look pretty diseased. I'm not sure if it is something to do with overcrowding or some kind of disease.

Can Hebes be cut down in the hope they will regrow, eg like Buddleia?

Is the condition showing disease or can it be rescued.

I just wonder if it is worth it. I haven't planted out tonight as I want to know the reality before I find a space for them. They are in bags of wet soil.

I would love some help if anyone has any advice or opinions? Thank you as always.

 

Hiya, it is difficult to grow back if you cut back to woody stems. I would say the chance is slim. However they are easy to grow from cuttings. Maybe take a few cuttings anyway just in case.