by Ray George
At the AGM, a resident raised the matter of hedges encroaching on the footway and some being very untidy. She suggested a hedge-trimming day, when a team could assist residents who were unable to maintain their hedges.
The HCERA Committee has considered this and has asked that a note in this Newsletter remind people of their duty not to let hedges, shrubs or trees obstruct the footways. They did not favour a “hedge-trimming day” as most people who are unable to manage a garden themselves, employ a gardener. We may be able to recommend a gardener, if you email us or contact your street rep. If there is a particular problem with overgrown hedges, please contact us.
The green privet hedges in parts of the estate are an important aspect of its character. Leaside Way is an example, where the privet hedges of uniform height have been preserved particularly well.
Without regular trimming, two or three times a year, the growth becomes open and loose. Some hedges have got seriously out of hand. Fortunately privet is very hardy and can withstand drastic pruning, best done in spring. Another problem is ivy growing up through the hedge. Now is a good time to pull out as much as possible by the roots.
Julie Ozwell, Director of Woodhill Properties Ltd., recently walked around the estate and commented upon how well the gardens are kept.