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Overhanging Trees and Hedges

Hedges and trees along the highway boundary are usually the responsibility of the adjoining land owner. They need to be kept trimmed so that pedestrians are not impeded by overgrown branches, drivers' sight lines are not blocked and traffic signs not hidden.  If they are allowed to become overgrown and cause an obstruction to vehicles or pedestrians, the Council has enforcement powers to require the owner to cut them back.

In extreme circumstances where vegetation is allowed to encroach onto or over the highway the Council may, as a last resort, issue a ‘Hedge Cutting Notice’ in accordance with section 154 of the Highways Act 1980. This takes the form of letter and requires the owner to cut back the overhanging vegetation within 14 days. If this is not done, the council has the power to carry out the work and recharge the owner.