Trees

We follow the following policies when considering requests for work which we are not required to undertake by law on trees which are owned by us –

We will deal with - 

A tree touching a private property. We take action to remove the nuisance by the most appropriate means. In many cases the solution will be for us to prune the tree. In some circumstances, it may be more appropriate to cut down the tree. If pruning is appropriate, we will try to undertake works to stop the problem re-occurring within 3 years.

We may deal with - 

Nuisance caused by overhanging branches at a private property may be considered as part of our general tree work programme. However, this programme is discretional and subject to the availability of funding.

Fruit, berries and nuts from trees - to remove or reduce the occurrence of -

• fruit
• berries
• nuts

Falling onto footways or private land. Fruit trees such as -

• apple
• cherry
• pear

are welcomed in many locations with the added benefit of providing free food. When considering what tree to plant we do take account of the likelihood of such problems.

Where fruit trees are established, but there is a significant anti-social behaviour problem caused by the throwing of fruit or nuts we may consider phased removal and replacement with more suitable species.

Telephone wires and trees

To remove or reduce interference with telephone wires. There may be instances where the council will undertake works to prune trees and reduce interference. This is only where pruning would be an effective measure. However, wires do and can run through trees with little or no effect. Service providers will often install the wires after the tree has been planted.

Anti-social behaviour and trees

Where a tree is associated with criminal activity or anti-social behaviour, steps to reduce the problem will typically require the coordination of many agencies including the police.

Pruning or felling a tree is not always the answer to the problem. Some research shows that areas with lots of trees help to make places safer. But, neglected spaces with overgrown trees and untidy areas can encourage criminal activity or anti-social behaviour.

Our tree and grounds maintenance programme tries to improve these areas by making the local environment -

• cleaner
• greener
• safer

Security cameras or sensors blocked by trees

To improve the range or vision of security cameras or similar sensor equipment unless requested to do so by an appropriate statutory authority, for example - the police, on the grounds of public safety.

Security of premises is the responsibility of the owner, and any system should be installed in such a way as to avoid interference.