In a recent dispute between neighbours in Crookston, Glasgow, a couple, Mohammed and Saima Faheem, have successfully fought to keep their 20ft trees intact after being ordered by the Glasgow City Council to chop them down. The clash arose with their neighbour, Charles Welsh, who had complained that the trees were casting shadows over his property, causing darkness and hindering his plans to use solar power to reduce energy bills. Welsh sought the council’s intervention under high hedge laws, resulting in an initial decision requiring the Faheems to reduce the trees’ height to 10ft. However, the Faheems appealed this ruling to the Scottish Government, which ultimately amended the decision, permitting the trees to be reduced only to 13ft.
The Faheems argued that cutting down the trees would not only compromise their privacy but also affect the wildlife that inhabit the area surrounding the trees. They expressed concern that reducing the trees to the specified height would leave behind bare stumps without foliage, impacting the ecosystem. In a letter to the government, they emphasised the vital role the trees played in providing privacy and serving as a habitat for various wildlife species.
On the other hand, Welsh reiterated his grievances, stating that the shade from the high hedge prevented him from enjoying his property to the fullest. He explained how the shade cast by the trees affected his ability to install solar panels for energy efficiency, ultimately leading to increased heating costs. Welsh highlighted that the shadow cast by the trees rendered his veranda unusable during certain times of the day, impacting his quality of life and desired home amenities.
The council’s high hedge notice cited the trees’ overbearing and dominant impact on the property and its surroundings. Nevertheless, following the government review, reporter Alison Kirkwood adjusted the requirement, allowing for a maximum height of four metres (13ft) from the ground level, taking into account both the privacy concerns of the Faheems and the adverse effects on Welsh’s property. Kirkwood also ensured that any tree works would be conducted outside the nesting season to mitigate harm to birds and biodiversity.
The resolution of this neighbourly dispute serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing individual property rights with environmental conservation efforts. The Faheems and Welsh were able to find a middle ground through the intervention of the Scottish Government, preserving the trees while addressing concerns related to light exposure, privacy, and energy efficiency. This case highlights the significance of seeking amicable solutions to disputes that arise between neighbours, considering the diverse interests and implications involved in such matters.