At least you have plenty of time to plan ! Personally I would make a start now on clearing it and digging it over. You should be able to get hold of a soil testing kit online if you can't get one locally (test in more than one area, you might be surprised ! ). Once that's done, inspiration may strike, if not come back and we'll do our best to assist .
It's kind of ubiquitous, but there aren't many plants that work harder than Pyracantha hedging in terms of wildlife value (nectar, berries, nesting sites). The visual appeal is limited to the berries and the short period of blossom, and that it's evergreen and amenable to being clipped to shape. But I think that's fine in a front garden.
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour".
Posts
Personally I would make a start now on clearing it and digging it over.
You should be able to get hold of a soil testing kit online if you can't get one locally (test in more than one area, you might be surprised ! ).
Once that's done, inspiration may strike, if not come back and we'll do our best to assist