Agricultural Hedges
What constitutes a hedge under the 1997 Hedgerow Regulations?
These regulations relate to any hedgerow that is growing on agricultural land. There are a few exemptions and it is advisable to discuss your individual case with our Landscape Architect/Tree Officer. Telephone 01228 817535 or email [email protected]
How do I apply to remove an agricultural hedge?
An application to remove an agricultural hedge should be made on the appropriate form available either by download, from the Customer Contact Centre, or from the Planning Policy Section.
How much does it cost to apply to remove an agricultural hedge?
There is currently no charge for an application to remove an agricultural hedge
What happens after I apply to remove an agricultural hedge?
The Council must decide within six weeks if the hedgerow is an important hedgerow as determined by the criteria set down in the legislation.
What makes a hedgerow important?
The criteria for determining whether a hedgerow is important are complicated. However they include the archaeological and historical importance of the hedgerow and its wildlife and landscape value.
What happens if the Council decides the hedgerow is important?
We will place a hedgerow retention notice on the hedge. This will prevent its removal. There is a right of appeal to the Secretary of State against the serving of a hedgerow retention notice.