A Fraserburgh man battles his neighbor over a hedge he claims spoils his summer BBQs; council rejects his appeal.
Scotland has a High Hedge Act that helps settle disputes about tall hedges. Homeowners can appeal to have hedges cut if the hedge significantly impacts their property.
The Fraserburgh man complained to the council, stating his neighbor’s hedge made his garden dark. He also mentioned asking his neighbor several times to trim the hedge.
The neighbor initially agreed to trim it, but then worried cutting it would kill it. The man felt this action proved his point.
The man said the hedge ruined his children’s summer fun. He could no longer relax in his sunny garden and now had to go inside earlier in the day. He spent money improving his garden, but now, the hedge blocks the sun.
They must eat inside due to the shade, and the garden is too shady for BBQs. Council experts looked into the issue and considered if the hedge harmed the property enjoyment and found the hedge blocked sunlight in the garden.
The hedge shaded the garden by mid-afternoon, and by 7 p.m., the entire garden was dark. However, the council denied the man’s request.
Officials said cutting it would not help much, thinking only a 45 cm cut was reasonable. The hedge ensures privacy for both properties.
The council felt a notice would have little effect as it would not significantly improve the enjoyment of the property and that the Hedge provides a screen.