Planning Enforcement Charter 2024-2026

The Council recognises that it is expensive to make a formal application, but that there are reasons for this.  Any Notice which is confirmed has its requirements remain in perpetuity and this in itself places a burden on the Council in terms of the potential for ongoing actions. There are also right of appeal on both sides, from the applicant and the High Hedge Owner.

To assist in clarifying this situation prior to making an application, the Council provides a free assessment of any concern regarding the potential for making a High Hedge application.   This entails a site visit and assessment confirming that the situation is appropriate, or not, for making an application and full detailed guidance is given to the person who is considering making an application,  However, this should not be considered as a substitute for making an application as no communications will be sent to the owner of the hedge advising of any action - the Council will not mediate between two parties, although the potential applicant will be reminded of their own duty to attempt formally to resolve the situation with the hedge owner prior to submitting an application.

The process for requesting an assessment is the same as making an enforcement complaint, online or in writing.   In the same way it is necessary to satisfy the requirements as stated in relation to submitting a report of a breach of planning control, but instead identifying the impact of the hedge in terms of the enjoyment of your residential amenity.