You will be running a risk - a mature ceanothus does not take very kindly to transplanting, although now would be a very good time to attempt it. Take as large as rootball as possible and have the new planting area prepared in advance. Replant promptly. Make sure your new location is well draining and in full sun. Do not amend the soil.

These shrubs establish and grow pretty rapidly in our climate - if it does fail, you can replace it relatively easily.

Yes: It would be alot easier and more practical to trash it and replace it with a new specimen. It's not like it's a rhododendron or dwarf conifer that takes many years to develop, would cost hundreds of dollars to replace.

Firstly, I agree with the last post that, since they are such fast-growing and inexpensive plants, it might be better simply to replace it.

Secondly, I'm intrigued by the thought of Ceanothus and Japanese maple as neighbours... I always understood they liked completely opposite conditions (Ceanothus - full sun, sharp drainage, Japanese maple - shade to dappled shade, cool conditions, humus-rich soil). How does it work?

Due to even more temperate weather UK gardens may actually have more such seemingly improbable pairings. Most ceanothus planted here will be garden hybrids grown in frequently watered soilless (or sandy) container media, more tolerant of ordinary garden conditions than their wild progenitors.

Thanks for all your responses! I thought I had heard that these were hard to move.. You're all right, this thing grew like a weed and was pretty cheap.. I think we'll just cut it down..

You're right ornata! The japanese maple isn't the happiest where it is.. It's right on the border line of shade with the sun being blocked by a larger tree..