Hedge-cutting

Main Street

It was good to see the hedgerows being trimmed yesterday on the approach to Nocton Village. This now gives a clear, unobstructed view of the 30 mph limit signs.

Clear approach to Nocton

There are differing opinions on the advantages/disadvantages of cutting hedges with regard to highway safety though. Whilst an overgrown hedge can hinder the carriageway, it often has the effect of slowing traffic into the village. Alternatively, a neatly trimmed hedge and a wide verge may encourage vehicles to adopt a higher approach speed, because of the better vision. Whatever the case, it looks much tidier thanks to the efforts of the tractor drivers.

Brushing up

Hedge-trimming and tidying

Hedgerow regulations

'A summary of the Hedgerow Regulations is contained in the Defra leaflet 'Hedgerow Regulations: Your Question Answered'. More detailed guidance is contained in 'The Hedgerows Regulations 1997: A Guide to the Law and Good Practice'.'

http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/regulation/hedgeregs/

Farmers frustrated by hedge-trimming ban extension

'Farmers have voiced concerns that hedge-cutting will be banned in August from 2015 to protect nesting birds, as part of EU legislation.'

http://www.fwi.co.uk/articles/13/06/2014/145015/farmers-frustrated-by-hedge-trimming-ban-extension.htm

Hedgerow trimming dates

'The dates when you can trim your hedge vary according to whether you are in an agri-environment scheme or not.'

http://www.nfuonline.com/science-environment/agri-environment-schemes/hedgerow-trimming-dates/