Too bad the conifer wasn't in a better spot - this situation was yet another example of why it is important to seriously consider long term development when choosing and placing woody plants.

Yes I agree, it was in place when I bought the house and was the wrong species to plant between the two houses. It was a healthy and beautiful tree, but completely wrong for a tight suburban garden. It was painful to chop it down, but I'm glad it's gone as there's so much more light in the garden now.