Neighbour's hedge turning into a row of trees

Yog Sothoth · 10-01-2009, 10:19

Our neighbours, with whom we have a 'cool' relationship (their choice not ours) have a hedge of bay laurels, big evergreen shrubs.

This hedge is on the south side of our decking, so casts soe shade on our plot. The decking is raised and overlooks their garden so I understand why they would want a screen there, fine.

Thing is, the laurels are now towering some 10ft over our decking and I can see half of it being in shade this summer as a result. I did cut them down to a reasonable height (head height) last year but had the neighbour rush out screaming abuse and saying in no uncertain terms NOT to touch her laurels. I kept calm and tried to reason with her but to no avail.

Thing is, I want to cut the down to a reasonable height, so they are about 6ft above our decking, providing an effective screen. Left to their own devices, they will become leggy trees, useless as a hedge. The neighbours don't seem to understand this.

Isn't there some recently introduced law regarding heights of hedges between properties? I can see this escalating into a dispute, so it'd be nice to know I have right on my side.

Cyclone · 10-01-2009, 10:22

You can only cut them if they are over hanging your garden, and then you must return the cuttings to your neighbour. You can't just start chopping the tops of peoples hedges without asking.
It sounds like you're being reasonable, but having cut them in the past without permission your neighbours aren't going to be inclined to help you out now.

Email the council and ask if there are any by-laws regarding the maximum height.

me-and-pippo · 10-01-2009, 10:26

Sheffield.gov.uk Dealing With Nuisance High Hedges

Dizzyblonde · 10-01-2009, 12:42

I think you need to talk to them and perhaps come to a compromise. Invite them around to see your decking and what it is like. Our previous neighbours wanted to cut our hedge lower but since we are all over six foot and my son kicks like Jonny Wilkinson but with a lot less accuracy we came to a reasonable compromise- but talking helped.

saxondale · 10-01-2009, 12:44

if you`d already touched my trees once I couldnt see you`d get very far the second time round ....... best get the estate agent round IMO.

waxonwaxoff · 10-01-2009, 13:17

Quote:

Originally Posted by saxondale

if you`d already touched my trees once I couldnt see you`d get very far the second time round ....... best get the estate agent round IMO.

To be fair I wouldnt be all that impressed having spent a fortune on decking to have to sit in a big black shadow.