Closed
Dangerous Tree outside 14-16 Wycliffe Road
Sent to Merton Council less than a minute later. Council ref: SRQ-1262485-Y2W8J1.
Dear London Borough of Merton,
I am writing to raise a concern about the large tree located outside 14–16 Wycliffe Road (SW19 1ER), which currently poses several hazards to pedestrians and nearby residents.
Firstly, it appears that the tree’s roots have grown extensively, causing the pavement surface to become uneven. This creates a significant trip hazard for anyone walking along that section of the road.
Secondly, the tree produces a pear-like fruit that can be quite heavy. When these fall, they present a risk of injury—including to children—and can also cause damage to vehicles parked beneath the tree.
Lastly, the branches have become overgrown and are now overhanging the front entrance of 14 Wycliffe Road, which may obstruct access and pose additional safety concerns.
This issue has been present for over a year now. I would greatly appreciate it if the council could inspect the site and consider an appropriate plan of action to address these issues and ensure the safety of pedestrians and residents.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Kind regards,
David
Updates
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Thank you for reporting a problem with a street tree.
We aim to inspect street tree problems within 10 working days of being reported, or 2 hours if the tree is dangerous. We aim to carry out any necessary work within 30 working days.
Did you know…?
We care for more than 20,000 street trees in Merton, including pruning, pollarding, and planting hundreds each year to keep streets green, safe, and walkable.
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We have instructed our contractor to trim low branches with potential to cause obstruction to public pavement. However, council has not responsibility to cut back branches just overhanging across property boundary. According to Merton Council’s policy document: Tree Strategy 2023–2029 and common law precedents: Residents have right to prune overhanging branches or encroaching roots 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. Removing a large proportion of a tree’s crown can adversely affect its health and increase the risk of decline or death. Please only prune back as necessary. 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. If you notice pavement damage that needs extra attention, please report it separately using the link below for a direct response and updates: https://www.merton.gov.uk/ streets-parking-transport/ streets-and-pavements/ dangerous-paving
As we understand, this ornamental pear tree doesn't have fruits sufficiently heavy to cause significant injure or high cost damage. We have not record of this kind of incident and this is seasonal natural cycle. Trimming trees to reduce fruit fall is not in line with Tree Policy, as it would require a significant canopy reduction for only temporary effect and would carry environmental costs.
This report is now closed to updates from the public. You can make a new report in the same location.