Latest news with #TreeProtectionOrder
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- General
- The Irish Sun
Warning that gardeners are risking huge £5,000 fines for mowing their lawns this weekend during certain hours
GARDENERS have been warned not to mow their lawns during certain hours this weekend to avoid paying a hefty fine. Anyone caught with a lawn mower risks forking out a whopping £5,000. Advertisement 1 Mowing the grass Credit: Getty Brits could be Many would be tempted to make the best out of the weather and tend to their gardens. Regularly giving your lawn a fresh cut helps to promote healthy growth, prevent stress on the grass, and improve air circulation. However, you have to be wary what time of the day you bring out your lawn mower out of the shed. Advertisement read more on fabulous Although there is no law stopping you from mowing your lawn during certain hours, you could get in trouble with your local council. They could issue a Noise Abatement Notice if you create noise disturbance during the prohibited hours. On weekdays, it is normally accepted to make noise between 8am and 8pm. However, on weekends, people have been advised to keep it quiet before 9am and after 7pm. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous East Coast Fencing says: 'Most people naturally opt for weekends to complete household and garden chores, including mowing the lawn. 'However, weekends are also when noise complaints tend to rise as families aim to relax or catch up on sleep. 'To prevent frustrations, pay extra attention to the timing of your mowing on Saturdays and Sundays.' I turned my bare front garden into a vibrant green lawn in DAYS thanks to a £4 buy from Asda - the grass grew like wildfire Those who don't abide by the rules could get fined for up to £5,000 for disturbance during unsociable hours. Advertisement Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at 'This is not an empty threat - these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them.' Luckily, experts have revealed that mowing too early can cause damage to your grass by exposing it to disease and fungal infections. The spring the best time to mow your lawn is between 9 am and 11 am. Advertisement Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
The Irish Sun
22-05-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Gardeners urged to AVOID plant that's the UK's next Japanese knotweed – it's expensive & can cause legal neighbour rows
WE all know about Japanese knotweed, but there's now another plant that gardeners are being urged to avoid at all costs. It's been dubbed the 'new Japanese knotweed' after owners have been left paying thousands in removal costs. Advertisement 3 Gardeners are being urged to avoid a 'stressful' plant that has been dubbed the 'new Japanese knotweed' Credit: Getty 3 Not only can it cost thousands in repairs, but it can even lead to legal issues with neighbours too Credit: Getty 3 Running bamboo spreads aggressively through underground rhizomes, sending out new shoots and canes away from the parent plant Credit: Jon Barton MD of Root Barrier Store Not only is it 'stressful' and 'expensive' for those who find it in their But certain varieties can become highly invasive if not properly contained, as they embed their root systems far and wide underneath the Some many have unknowingly planted the unruly species in their gardens, or even inherited the problem after purchasing a property, which has then wreaked havoc on their own and neighbouring properties. As well as this, it can also cause legal issues with neighbours too. Advertisement Read more garden stories So what is the plant in question you ask? Running bamboo. Gardening experts at And according to gardening pro Chris Bonnett, running bamboo varieties can travel up to 10 metres from the parent plant. Running bamboo is a type of bamboo that spreads aggressively through underground rhizomes, sending out new shoots and canes away from the parent plant. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous These rhizomes can travel long distances underground, making it difficult to contain their spread. As a result, Chris warned: 'If you're growing running varieties, it's a good idea to keep them in pots and planters in order to control the growth and spread." Map reveals worst areas for Japanese knotweed with fears plant will wipe thousands off house prices Such running varieties have proved a nightmare for many As reported by Advertisement Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Following this, a bamboo survey of her outside space revealed that the plant's rhizomes had spread across her entire garden. Subsequently, Emily Grant, director at Buyers need to consider the risk of a legal case from a neighbour if the bamboo encroaches into their property Emily Grant She warned: 'Nobody wants to inherit a stressful and expensive issue when they buy a property, but this is frequently happening with "There is no legal framework to protect buyers, as there is for Japanese knotweed.' Advertisement She also explained: 'In addition to potential damage to their own property and garden, buyers need to consider the risk of a legal case from a Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club The Most Invasive Plants in the UK Several non-native species have been introduced to the UK over the years. These are the most problematic plants to look out for in your garden. Japanese Knotweed It is an offence against the 1981 Wildlife & Countryside Act to grow Japanese Knotweed. It might not be poisonous, it is extremely fast-growing and can seriously damage buildings, paving and structures. Giant Hogweed It might look rather attractive, but Giant Hogweed can be pretty dangerous. The plant's sap is toxic and can cause burns or blisters if it comes into contact with the skin. Himalayan Balsam Himalayan Balsam is another plant you need to keep your eyes on. It produces an array of pretty pink flowers, but one plant is said to be able to spread 2,500 seeds, that are "launched" over a distance of seven metres. And like other invasive plants, Himalayan Balsam wipes out other plants, growing up to three metres high, drawing out sunlight for smaller plants. New Zealand Pigmyweed New Zealand Pigmyweed is an aquatic plant that can cause havoc in still water, such as lakes and ponds or even slow moving water, such as canals. It also impacts animals, such as frogs, fish and newts, as it can form a dense mat on the water's surface, therefore starving the water of oxygen. Rhododendron An incredibly beautiful plant, loved my many gardeners, but the Rhododendron is technically classed as an invasive specie due to its rapid growth in woodlands. Unlike other invasive species mentioned on this list, it's not recommended to completely remove or kill Rhododendrons but instead take extra care to manage their growth, trimming and pruning them regularly.
Scottish Sun
09-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Gardening expert reveals vital step to keeping your lawn green and healthy during the summer heat
Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
The Irish Sun
09-05-2025
- Climate
- The Irish Sun
Gardening expert reveals vital step to keeping your lawn green and healthy during the summer heat
USING this one simple trick will help improve the health of your garden in warm weather, according to experts. Bokashi Living revealed that mulch is the one crucial element to keeping a Advertisement 6 Experts have said mulch will protect your grass Credit: Getty 6 Mulch locks in moisture and nutrients Credit: Getty Applying a thick layer to your lawn will help boost The mulch will protect your soil from sun exposure and ensure your plants stay healthy in the summer heat. Gardening experts said this one trick will allow your A thick layer of mulch will also reduce water evaporation from the soil according to the experts. Advertisement Read more Fabulous News Heatwaves can make it difficult to maintain a healthy looking lawn but a good layer of mulch will help with this. High temperatures and blazing sunlight can leave your grass brown, dry and prone to damage. 6 Your lawn could be left parched by the summer heat Credit: Getty 6 Gardening experts say using mulch leaves lawns healthier and greener in summer heatwaves Credit: Getty Advertisement The heat and sunlight accelerates water evaporation from your soil leaving your plants and grass parched. Even regularly watering your garden may not help with water quickly being baked out of the soil in hot weather. Most read in Fabulous Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. A layer of mulch helps to lock in moisture and nutrients and create a cool, wet surface for your There is a huge variety of mulch you can use to help protect your plants from the heat this summer. Advertisement 6 Mulch creates a protective layer over your lawn Credit: Getty 6 Lots of different kinds of mulch can be made at home Credit: Getty Mulch is commonly made from organic material such as leaf mould, rotted manure or composted woodchips. Standard Advertisement By composting garden and kitchen waste you can even make your own mulch. Gardening experts recommend using a thick layer of mulch this summer,
The Sun
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I used ChatGPT to renovate my council house garden – it only cost me £15 with B&M & Home Bargain's buys
WITH summer just around the corner and warm weather starting to make an appearance, many Brits are gearing up to spruce up their gardens for some seasonal fun. However, with the cost of living crisis continuing to tighten budgets, most will be looking for ways to save money while creating an inviting outdoor space. 2 One savvy woman has discovered a clever way to transform her garden on a budget while keeping things simple and professional. Leona, known as 'leona_11.11 ' on TikTok, revealed she turned to ChatGPT for guidance while renovating the garden of her council house. Leona decided to tackle the project herself with 'no skill and no money,' starting with plans to create a firepit area. She began digging a circular patch in her garden, removing the turf and digging down approximately 10 to 15cm. Armed with supplies from Wickes – including a spade, gloves, and bags of stones – she started filling the space. Leona also shared a helpful tip in the comments section of her video, noting that B&M were selling three bags of stones for £15 – a great deal for those on a budget. She also got her fire pit from Home Bargains for £30. She finished off the are with two reclining sun loungers - also from Home Bargains, for £25 each. To make the space extra cosy, she added a few solar powered garden lights around the edge of the circle. To top it all off, she used ChatGPT to assist with the design process, simply sending over a picture and asking for a visual makeover to guide her renovations. 'That time of year again' - Peter O'Mahony's captivating garden update includes hilarious tip for parents Within three days her transformation video gained over 464.2k views, with 893 people rushing to the comments section to share their thoughts. Some even made some suggestions as well. One wrote: 'Hear me out – four large pots, four wooden posts, fill each pot with cement to secure the posts, place them around the edge, and attach lights! "Also, plants – maybe cordyline?' A second added: 'You're a total badass. Well done!' A third said: 'I made a fire pit area very similar to yours. It's hard work all on ya own so good on you. it's looking good.' 2 Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
