In message , Richard
writes
Situation:

Beech hedge some 12' high and about 6' deep has the remains of a 3'
closeboarded fence about a foot away from its centre line, i.e. the
fence was built along my boundary and the beech hedge planted close to
the fence on my side of the boundary. Fence has now come to the end of
its life and I wish to replace it - the collapsing fence is revealing
the bald base of the hedge and allowing easy access for animals,
particularly dogs. The hedge has also suffered from poor maintenance
and has grown out quite a bit - hence its depth.

I do not wish to cause tremendous damage to the hedge or do any radical
pruning. Can I use metal post anchors such as Metpost to fix 6' fence
posts along the line of the previous fence at maybe 4' intervals,
perhaps with a top rail between each post to prevent swaying and a stay
through the hedge at say 45 deg down from each post to stake under the
hedge on my side of the boundary. Then build the fence up with
horizontal boards as far as I can and wherever I can.

Is this a crazy solution?

Yes. Although, as a farmer with domestic neighbours, I have to admire
your honesty:-)

Can anyone suggest anything better?

Why are you determined not to prune? Is there an access/disposal issue?
Beech is boys stuff compared with Blackthorn.

BTW the far side of the hedge faces open woodland - not another garden.

Rabbits? You mention dogs so possibly public open space? Privacy issues?

Cost has not been mentioned but the cheapest dog proof barrier is
agricultural stock fence or, if Rabbits are a problem, 48" 18 gauge
netting. Burying the bottom 6" will be difficult with your roots.

Benefits. Cheap, good life (20 years) hedge can fill out because light
is not obstructed. Post spacing is not critical. No maintenance
required.

Downside. Strainer posts required at corners/50m. Loss of privacy,
temporary. Using a sledge hammer below branches is not practical so you
need Metposts or a tubular post rammer.

ISTR there is some advice on rural fencing on the Forestry Commission
website.

regards

--
Tim Lamb