Problem hedges face axe

From tomorrow local authorities will be able to intervene in disputes between neighbours over high hedges.

If neighbours can not reach an agreement, local authorities can hear complaints and decide if the hedge height is unreasonable and spell out what action must be taken.

ODPM minister Jim Fizpatrick, said: “This legislation offers a light at the end of the tunnel for people whose lives have been made a misery from high hedges. Out of control hedges can block out the daylight from neighbours’ homes and gardens, becoming a real drain on their quality of life.”

He added: “Involving the local authority should only be a last resort and I urge people to talk to one another to resolve disputes before it goes too far. However, when all other avenues have failed, it is good news that people will now have somewhere to turn for a fair decision.”