KEITH Gallacher, director of Complete Weed Control, Scotland, has revealed why he considers the Merlo ROTO telehandler to be the ideal choice for tree operations.
The Larkhall-based firm provides a range of services including weed control, invasive species management, fine turf applications, grounds maintenance, arboriculture, site clearance, and winter services.
In an effort to reduce the risks associated with working at height within the arboriculture division, Complete Weed Control explored mechanised alternatives for tree removal. The continuous rotating Merlo ROTO with tilting cab and equipped with the GMT TTC grapple saw, emerged as the perfect solution.
Keith said, “This machine offers exceptional reach, allowing operators to handle limbs from various angles without repositioning the equipment. Moreover, its compact footprint means it has zero tail-swing and so, instead of closing the whole road work can be safely carried out with minimum disruption to traffic flow.”
Given the company’s focus on highways and roadside tree work, the Merlo ROTO’s ability to move quickly and efficiently made it a standout choice.
Keith added, “The devastating effects of Storm Eowyn in January 2025 left a significant clean-up operation in its wake. The Merlo ROTO played a crucial role in safely and efficiently removing hazardous trees.
“By enabling operators to work from a distance, the machine made it possible to sectionalise and remove dangerous trees that would have been nearly impossible to handle without mechanisation. The tilting cab is invaluable for looking up at the grapple saw in the canopy.”
One of the most significant advantages of the Merlo ROTO is said to be its ability to eliminate risks faced by chainsaw operators, particularly the dangers of working at height. Unlike human workers, the Merlo ROTO doesn’t suffer from fatigue, maintaining consistent performance throughout long and demanding tasks.
The ROTO has proven particularly valuable in Complete Weed Control’s roadside tree surgery, where tree removal is a primary focus. Its road-legal design enables road travel up to 40kph between sites.
On attachments, Keith has been impressed with the GMT TTC050 grapple saw, which he believes enhances precision and control.
Owning a Merlo ROTO has positioned Complete Weed Control as an industry leader in safer tree removal. Keith believes the investment has attracted new clients and demonstrated the company’s commitment to improving safety and efficiency.
Keith’s team has been operating a Merlo ROTO 50.26SPLUS since acquiring the machine from Wm Rose in January 2023. Wm Rose covers Peebleshire, East Lothian, and Scotland’s central belt. Complete Weed Control’s ROTO is maintained with servicing every 500 hours.
Alan Rose, director of Wm Rose, added, “We’ve been Merlo dealers for the past five years and are impressed with Merlo’s dedication to continuously innovate and develop their telehandler range. The ROTO is market-leading, and we continue to be excited by the interest north of the border.”
Merlo said rotating telehandlers provide ‘unparalleled advantages’ over fixed models, making them ideal for arboriculture. The Merlo ROTO offers: 360° rotation, allowing full access to trees without repositioning the machine; a tilting cab for optimal visibility and comfort; extended reach, enabling operators to work at height safely and efficiently; and multi-functionality, acting as a telehandler, rough terrain crane, and aerial work platform in one. The machines also boast smart operator features such as adaptive load control and a 10” terminal for customised settings.
