The rules on cutting hedges and trees are set out within cross compliance standard GAEC7A: Boundaries.
As of the 1 March, the rules state that hedge cutting cannot be carried out until the close period ends on the 30 August. Carys Studley of Rostons comments, however, that “there will be a derogation available for hedge cutting after the 29 February, however you must obtain consent from the RPA to do so”.
Carys also comments that “it is important to ensure that if you are with any Stewardship Scheme which the management option restricts hedge cutting then derogation will also need to be obtained from Natural England”.
If you would like more details on these derogations please do contact us on 01829 773000 where the team will gladly assist.
For further information contact the Rostons office on 01829 773000