I agree with MT re the honey fungus as we were in a similar situation when we cut down a row of conifers when we first moved in. However, we had no choice, couldn't get rid of all the stumps, so chanced it. I now have strawbs in one bed and a mixed perennial and shrub border in the other. Also have a clematis which I grew from seed slowely clambering up one of the trunks we decided to leave behind for some strange reason. Got to be worth a go.
Great scope by the way!! I should imagine you could see my place from there!!!!!! :o