A lack of good site management can be just as high a threat as not looking after the tree itself. Among the threats relating to management of sites and surroundings are:
Competition from surrounding younger trees: Ancient trees can be seriously suppressed and eventually killed if younger trees shade them. The problem needs to be tackled gradually, in order to avoid sudden and potentially lethal exposure to strong sunlight.
The risk of fires in the surrounding vegetation. A single fire in dry vegetation, especially bracken, can kill trees that have stood for centuries. Management of vegetation can reduce this hazard, while also improving habitats for wildlife associated with ancient trees and allowing natural regeneration of future generations of trees.