Thanks very much for the suggestions. I think we might go for willow screening for a short term fix & if we like it, could be the answer until the fence needs replaced. It would also help disguise the current lack of symmetry if we cover the whole fence. Bamboo is an interesting suggestion but I'm a bit concerned about my ability to keep it under control. Definitely one for me to think about, as it could look great if I get it right.

I wouldn't have put a lawn in. You can see how it goes, but they require a lot of mowing and it sounds like you don't get a lot of sun so it may well end up very mossy and wet most of the time. See how it goes but maybe you need the deck to be sited on the left, so it is in the sun in the middle of the day/evening if possible, so not near the house if it faces east. Evergreen climbers are essential for small gardens with fences. Trachelospermum jasminoides, has lovely scented flowers in the summer and Hydrangea seemannii and Pileostegia Viburnoides are good in shade. I would put in a lot of planting on the shady side of the garden, a good evergreen grass for clay is Carex pendula. I would also plant an Amelanchier or Acer at the far end to screen the neighbours windows and autumn colour. You could look up evergreen ground covers for shade. Good luck!

Measure your garden and draw up a scaled plan. Indicate what areas will be hard scaping and what will be planted. Note where the sun is during the day and from what direction you have prevailing wind. You can do the research yourself or take your plan to a garden centre where someone on staff will be able to advise you. You can decide in advance what colours you'd like, i.e. soft pastels in pink, blue and violet or hot borders with reds, oranges and yellows. Good luck and enjoy your planning.

Thanks. Yup, all done myself. No machinery involved as it wasn't accessible. Quite back breaking!