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Large tree protruding into road

Reported via desktop in the Other Street Tree Problem category anonymously at 14:57, Mon 4 August 2025

Sent to Merton Council 1 minute later. Council ref: SRQ-1241078-S3R3V9.

The large tree outside my home needs to be looked at. The trees branches are touching my upstairs windows and it has a large branch protruding into the road which is coursing a problem for parking. The pathway to my front door is lifting because of the roots of the tree and it is also a problem for pedestrians walking along road. It has been like this for a very long time. Please can you help.

Updates

  • We've asked the relevant service provider to investigate.

    State changed to: In progress

    Posted by Merton Council at 15:04, Mon 4 August 2025

  • As our latest inspection, we have prescribed to cut back tree branches during routine maintenance. Please understand that we are unable to maintain all street trees simultaneously. Borough-wide tree maintenance is prioritised by risk to public safety, so lower-risk trees will be addressed as work progresses on higher-risk ones. We apologise for not being able to provide a specific date at this time, but we are managing the work as efficiently as possible within our resource limits. For low branches with potential to cause obstruction to parking, we have instructed our ground maintenance contractor to clear. According to Merton Council’s policy document: Tree Strategy 2023–2029 and common law precedents: Residents have right to prune overhanging branches up to their property boundary, provided the tree is not protected (e.g. by a Tree Preservation Order) or in a conservation area. The pruned material remains council property, but you do not need to return it and please dispose of in legal and appropriate manner. Please note that access to council land is not permitted during such work for safety reasons. We recommend using a qualified tree surgeon for safe, professional work: https://www.trees.org.uk/ Find-a-professional We understand that the roots of street trees can sometimes cause damage to roads or pavements. Our Highways team have maintenance programme in place to repair any damage and prevent trip hazards. This upkeep is part of the shared cost of enjoying the many benefits that street trees bring to our community. This problem has been referred to Highways maintenance team.

    Posted by Merton Council at 13:44, Fri 12 December 2025

  • We've asked the relevant service provider to investigate.

    State changed to: Closed

    Posted by Merton Council at 13:49, Fri 12 December 2025

This report is now closed to updates from the public. You can make a new report in the same location.