Trees subject to a tree preservation order, or in a conservation area where controls apply, need consent. Separately, cutting hedges and trees during the bird nesting season from 1 March to 31 August is restricted by wildlife law.
Check the development plan and the planning register for tree preservation orders affecting the site, and check whether an existing permission included a condition requiring retention of boundary hedging.
The Wildlife Acts prohibit cutting, grubbing or destroying vegetation growing on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August, with limited exemptions such as works required for road safety or under certain statutory functions.