Arthur Road, KT3 6LX near Nos. 30 & 32

Updates

• 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.
  

  Posted by Merton Council at 14:43, Tue 11 November 2025

• Thank you for your report. As our latest inspection, we have specified to remove small diameter dead branches found on the tree as part of 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. The loss of blossom, fruit, sap or leaves as well as bird droppings from trees is part of the natural cycle. It is not considered to be a legal nuisance and cannot be suitably or satisfactorily controlled by pruning. Trimming trees to reduce leaf or fruit fall is not in line with our Tree Policy, as it would require a significant canopy reduction for only temporary effect and would carry environmental costs. Fallen leaves / fruits on public pavement are street clean issue please report to following link for fast and direct response: https://www.merton.gov.uk/ streets-parking-transport/ street-cleaning 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

  State changed to: In progress

  Posted by Merton Council at 14:42, Wednesday 14 January 2026