In progress
Tree roots damaging front low wall
Sent to Merton Council less than a minute later. Council ref: SRQ-1265366-C5V4K0.
Tree roots pushing up the plat form and pressing on the front wall of No. 48. The branches are protruding into the front garden causing leaves on the entrance. Needs to trim the branches away from Nos 46 and 48. Numerous communications have been made over the last five years on this issue and no actions berms taken by the Merton Council.
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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Thank you for your report. Following our latest inspection, we have identified and specified the necessary tree works including cutting back branches from houses 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. We understand that the roots of street trees can sometimes cause damage to roads or pavements. Our Highways team have inspection and 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 For tree root damage within your property boundary, we are unable to carry out repairs in private property. However, you may submit a damage claim and then arrange the repairs yourself by the compensation if approved. Please see following link for details about claim procedure: https://www.merton.gov.uk/ council-and-local-democracy/ complaints-comments/ insurance-claims During the repairing, you can cut back tree roots within property boundary and consider to inserting root barriers. 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 large roots can affect the tree’s stability and increase the risk of whole tree failure. We recommend using a qualified tree surgeon or consulting an arboriculturist for safe, professional work: https://www.trees.org.uk/ Find-a-professional
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