Commentary on Sections High hedge notices Section 11 – Tree preservation orders
33.This section applies where a high hedge notice relates to a high hedge which includes a tree or forms part of a group of trees subject to a tree preservation order. Section 34(1) provides that a tree preservation order has the meaning given by section 160(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1997. Such an order can be made by a planning authority providing for the preservation of trees or groups of trees or woodlands where it is expedient in the interests of amenity or that the trees, groups of trees or woodlands are of cultural or historical significance.
34.Subsection (2) provides that a tree preservation order has no effect in relation to any initial or preventative action done to any tree or group of trees specified in a high hedge notice. However, under section 6(7) the local authority must have regard (amongst other things) to the effect of the high hedge on the amenity of the area and whether the high hedge is of cultural or historical significance in determining an application for a high hedge notice.