"Broadback" wrote in message
...
Rupert wrote:
"David WE Roberts" wrote in message
news
On Sat, 08 Apr 2006 02:56:53 -0700, beddy2005 wrote:

Hi Please help

I have a oak tree in my back garden which has a tree preservation order
on it. Every five years or so the neighbours apply to the council to
trim a bit more off. It is making the tree top heavy as they keep
taking more branches off. Some times illegally and without permission.
Permission I believe has been granted again to carry out work, is there
anything I can do to complain vigorously against there actions.

Thanks
How about maintaining the tree yourself so it doesn't get 'top heavy'
and
also doesn't cause your neighbours problems?

Why should your neighbours suffer because of a tree on your property?

Without the tree preservation order they would be quite within their
rights to remove anything overhanging their property without seeking
permission; you obviously have the right to have the trimmings returned
to
you if you so wish.

You may detect a certain lack of sympathy from this direction.

Cheers

Dave R


Just a cotton picking moment Dave--The chances are that the tree is
worthy of a TPO and was there long before the neighbours bought the
property.
It appears that the neighbours are philistines.
Trees with TPOs can be a real problem. I have three and all you are
allowed (officially) to cut off without specific permission are small
twigs that can be pruned with secatures. One of mine appears to be dying,
this year, at not inconsiderable expense I need to pay an expert to
negotiate with the council about what I can or cannot remove. If the
council stop me from doing work that I consider necessary then if a large
branch falls causing injury or damage I hope that the courts will look
upon me with benign consideration.

I do sympathise having been in the same position several times. Local tree
specialist/tree surgeon negotiates with the council who are always very
helpful.
It is an expensive job particularly as you are only allowed to use a
qualified/certified tree chap and under no circumstances will they grant
permission for you to touch the tree yourself. I do know that policy varies
from council to council