K wrote:
Have a look at:
http://www.dti.gov.uk/files/file34072.pdf

This is particularly helpful, Kay. Thanks. The document above, and
those it refers to, state that companies only have statutory powers
where a tree
1. "obstructs or interferes" with a line
and/or
2. is seen to "to constitute an unacceptable source of danger (whether
to children or to other persons)".

As there is a clear meter's clearance between wires and trees in my
case, then No. 1 does not apply. No. 2 certainly does not apply as
neither children nor adults pass within three meters of the trees and
four meters of the pole.

I'm extremely grateful to you all for the moral support of your
messages.

The DTI document makes clear that there is a process to be followed,
i.e. I had a right to object within 21 days of the letter I received
back in February. The company then would have had the right to refer
the matter to the relevant Secretary of State. Well, the letter I
received failed to inform me of my rights and now, three months on, the
power company has not referred the matter to the Secretary of State.
So, indeed in this case I may refuse to give any permission when the
tree-cutter next visits and I could invite him to send me a formal
notification (including an explanation of my rights!) which I will then
object to within 21 days. This seems like the way to go.

Eddy.