The
correct hedge can have many benefits to a garden. It can act as a screen
reducing visual impact, be an effective security deterrent and can be an
ideal garden boundary. But the wrong hedge can cause problems.
The
high hedges legislation, introduced on 1 June 2005, means you have a responsibility
for looking after the height of your hedge. This is so it doesn’t block
light or adversely affect your neighbour's reasonable enjoyment of their
property.
The
legislation applies particularly to fast growing conifer trees, such as Leyland
Cypress hedges.
Advice
on choosing the right hedge for your garden can be found in the RHS
guide Garden Hedges (364K).
The
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister website also produces guidance in The
right hedge for you: a guide to choosing a garden hedge.
There
are no controls on the type of hedge that can be planted in your garden.
However, a number of points are worth considering:
How
much space is available?
It
is always best to ensure the space is sufficient to accommodate the hedge.
Are
there any overhead wires or obstructions?
The
wrong hedge may damage these.
What
position is the hedge in comparison to the property?
A
new hedge to the south or west may block afternoon or evening sun, while
a hedge to the north will not restrict direct light entering the building.