tall, fast-growing hedge in shade?

[salilah]

Sorry if this is the wrong place!

We are building in the back garden, and have just been told the Buildings Inspector will only give permission if we remove the row of Leylandii (in case the roots disrupt the foundations - the trees and the foundation slab have been there already for 20 years or so, but...)

We would like to replace with something to provide a screen for the neighbours - they have a 6ft or so fence, but would still look at the wall and roof... We need something fast growing, that can handle shade when growing (the building will shade a lot, its large shed height), but that won't have disruptive roots
We'll have a bit of space between hedge and building so would be able to trim the top (just)...

Any suggestions much appreciated!
thanks
Sali

[vicky]

I've just had a survey done for a new house and it highlighted potential problems from some shrubs that I wouldn't consider to be dodgy (lillacs and philadelphus), basically once a plant grows over 15ft the insurance companies etc start to get jittery!
Have you considered climbing plants? They have less invasive roots and possibly grow more quickly than shrubs. eg Clematic montana is particularly vigourous and thrives in shade. Climbing hydrangea, Akebia and certain roses all do well in shade.

[Two_Sheds]

Thing about fast-growers is they don't know when to stop ... what about privet? Not sexy, but does the job.

[Alison]

Anything which will grow fast in the shade won't know when to stop and you will potentially have an ongoing maintenance issue. You say it's to shield the neighbours, have you asked them what they would like? Personally if I already had a 6' fence then I'd be happy with that and wouldn't want anything additional. Just a thought.

If you really do want something then I'd be inclined to go the climber route also.

[tamsin]

Have you asked the neighbours if they do want a screen? Might be they will be pleased the conifers are gone so they can plant their own choice of plant on their side

[salilah]

Thanks all for the suggestions! We've talked, and they are thinking about the options, including the option of us paying for some plants to grow their side of the fence (more light)
Will keep investigating and may be back!
cheers & thanks
S