I know this has been asked a few times. I have a large old yew hedge in my front yard on my property line. It is decades old, and is growing under my neighbors very old maple. I know not much else would grow under there but the hedge is so dark I just hate it. I also know taking it out would be a beast (we have taken others out and we have stumps everywhere). So I am intrigued by a heavy pruning right now before new growth.

They are too tall (about 5 feet) but also very deep (about 4 feet). Because they are on the property line I'd like to try and do this the best way without going to just stumps, but am looking for other's experiences (not just opinions, I've seen those on this forum already thank you! - but those who have done this and how long it took to grow back). Thanks so much!