Heavy prune of a Privet hedge ?

The hedge is old (50+yrs) , around 10-11 feet high and 3-4 feet thick, healthy and grows well.

If I cut the top 12 inches off to lower it a little and cut back the sides by 6 inches on each side to narrow it then I am effectively cutting all the green off . Will this kill it or will it sprout new growth ?
Thanks

Brian

 

Privet is usually very good in re sprouting

I would cut the top off like you say...then leave it a short while until there is fresh growth seen, then do the sides one at a time

 

Yea Good advice from Steve. Should be ok but do it soon before the hedge puts too much energy into new growth.

 

OK, thanks for that.
A bit at a time seems to be the safest bet.

Brian