Hedgerow Protection

A good introductory article is available from Naturenet.

Further information

Under regulations introduced in 1997, the removal of any hedge longer then 20 metres, requires planning permission.

If the hedge is shown to be significant in terms of its age, environmental or historical importance, then the planning authority can refuse such permission and take further measures to protect the hedgerow.

To be seen as significant enough for this action, the hedgerow must be at least 30 years old and meet a minimum of one of eight criteria:

1. marks a pre-1850 parish or township boundary
2. incorporates an archaeological feature
3. is part of, or associated with, an archaeological site
4. marks the boundary, or is associated with, a pre- 1600 estate or manor
5. forms an integral part of a pre-1845 field system
6. contains certain rare plants or animals (listed in the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act)
7. includes a certain number of woody species over a given length
8. runs alongside a public right of way and contains a minimum number of woody species

Relevant section of How to win: Saving wildlife sites

Section 3: Nature Conservation Designations and Schemes

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