ᐅ New Construction – Plot Overgrown with Blackberries

Hello,

I hope I’ve posted this in the right subforum.

Our 520 sqm (5600 sq ft) plot is unfortunately completely overgrown with blackberry bushes up to 3-4 m (10-13 ft) high. We plan to start construction (including the basement) in February/March, but I’m not familiar with all the necessary steps and would appreciate some guidance.

On Wednesday, my neighbor is coming with his team and a tractor with a mulcher to clear all the bushes — so finally we’ll have a clear view of the site.

But what next? For the basement, a construction pit will be excavated anyway, and the topsoil from that area will be removed. The existing sandy soil is suitable for backfilling.

However, the rest of the topsoil will remain in the garden area. What would be the best approach here — also aiming to keep costs low? Should I privately hire someone to scrape off all the topsoil before construction and pile it at the back of the garden? But can this soil be reused later (after sifting or applying herbicide)?

Or should the entire topsoil be removed (what is the cost per cubic meter?), and then new soil brought in later? If so, when is the best time for this? After the building is completed?

Sorry for the basic questions, but I’d prefer not to put the contractor in an awkward position that might cause unnecessary extra costs.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Best regards,
Sebastian