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The alternator in my 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 requires replacing or reconditioning.
I am told it is very hard to remove from this model due to it's position.
Can anyone give me some tips I can pass on to my local mechanic?

You don't mention which engine is in your car (2.5 V6 or the 2.0 litre), but either way, this will be a big job. A good mechanic should be able to do the job but it does take a lot of time, so be prepared for a fairly hefty labour bill. However, it might be better to have an Alfa specialist carry out the job. They will be more conversant with the idiosyncracies of these engines and are likely to do the job a lot quicker than someone doing it for the first time.
I understand the alternator is mounted under the manifold, so the entire induction system, fuel rail, manifold etc needs to be removed on the 4 cylinder cars. Mechanics who have done this job on a V6 say it needs to come out from underneath and the only way is to remove the subframe.

It is a 2.0 litre. Yes, it sounds expensive but has to be done!
Thanks for your remarks.