Closed
Tree in ned of reduction or pollarding
Sent to Merton Council less than a minute later. Council ref: SRQ-1271239-W7V8Q0.
It has been some years since the size of this tree was adjusted. The branches now overhang the driveway of 79 Church Lane causing excessive sap dropping.
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. Please understand there is no set size for a tree. Trees are expected to grow up and large that taking in more carbon to mitigate climate change. Sorry for the inconvenience caused by street trees. 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. 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). Please note that access to council land is not permitted during such work for safety reasons. The pruned material remains council property, but you do not need to return it and please dispose of in legal and appropriate manner. 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
This report is now closed to updates from the public. You can make a new report in the same location.