Ramsey Town Commissioners have developed a policy on the application of the Highways Act 1986 to deal with complaints from the public about obstructions caused by overhanging hedges, trees and shrubs.

In a leaflet, to be posted on its website ramsey.gov.im, the Commission states that responsibility lies with the land owner for ensuring trees, hedges and any other vegetation do not encroach onto the public highway and cause an obstruction.

The leaflet clarifies what is classed as ‘an obstruction’, sets out under what circumstances the Commissioners should be alerted to any such obstruction and details the Commission’s complaints response procedure, which includes the power to serve a formal notice on the offending land owner, failure to comply with which attracts a maximum penalty of ?1000.

In extreme cases where vegetation is deemed to pose a potential risk to public safety, remedial work will be undertaken by Ramsey Town Commissioners, who will then seek to recover all reasonable costs incurred from the land owner.

To report incidences of overhanging trees and hedges write to Ramsey Town Commissioners, Town Hall, Ramsey, IM8 2EF. Alternatively register the complaint at ramsey.gov.im or email enquiries@rtc.gov.im.