FIRE DAMAGE TO HEDGEROW ALONG CUCKOLDS GREEN ROAD

We have been contacted by a landowner in Lower Stoke regarding fire damage caused to a hedgerow along Cuckolds Green Road.

We’d like to remind all residents that intentionally damaging or destroying a hedgerow—particularly where it results in harm to wildlife—is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This includes the intentional destruction of active bird nests or disturbance of nesting birds, which is prohibited by law and can lead to prosecution, fines, and even imprisonment.

Additionally, hedgerows are protected under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997, which makes it an offence to unlawfully remove or damage important countryside hedgerows. Breaking these regulations can result in significant penalties, including unlimited fines.

We therefore respectfully ask that whoever is responsible for this fire damage ceases this activity immediately. Hedgerows are vital habitats for local wildlife and an important part of our rural landscape.

We thank you for your understanding by helping to protect our environment and keeping our community safe.