North Yorkshire County Council is calling on people to make sure that hedges or trees on their property do not cause a hazard by overhanging roads or pavements.
This summer, the council’s highways teams have encountered increasing instances of pavements being obstructed and road signs obscured by overgrown trees and bushes.
The County Council is responsible for making sure trees and hedges growing on the highway don’t obstruct the highway or damage property.
Landowners and occupiers have similar responsibilities for trees and hedges on their property.
They must make sure these do not obscure road signs, reduce visibility for road users or prevent people using the road or pavement safely. They are also responsible for removing dead or decaying trees and other growth, removing branches that hinder high-sided vehicles or block light from a street light and making sure roads and pavements are clear of debris from cutting work.
“Overgrown foliage is an issue each summer,” said County Councillor Don Mackenzie, Executive Member for Highways, “but particularly so this year. The weather has been a perfect combination of sunshine and showers, which is ideal for the growth of vegetation, and that is causing problems.
“If pavements are overgrown, pedestrians can be forced to walk in the road, and if signs warning of such things as speed limits, junctions or bends are obscured motorists can be put at risk.
“We’re asking people to help us to help them. Please keep an eye on your vegetation and trees and if any is encroaching onto the highway, please cut it back.
“Of course, consideration should be given to wildlife, particularly during the nesting season, but it is always permissible to carry out safety-related maintenance of hedges, trees and bushes.”
More information about maintenance of vegetation can be found on the County Council’s website at www.northyorks.gov.uk/vegetation.