asked the Minister for the Environment if, in the interests of bedgerow wildlife, he will make an order preventing county councils and the farming community from cutting hedges and forestation during the nesting season because the present timing of such work is having a very harmful and devastating effect on the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Hedgerow Wildlife.
75.
My Department's function in his issue relates to the cutting and trimming of roadside trees and hedges. The guidelines on road grants issued annually to local authorities advise them that roadside trimming, including hedge cutting, should take place during the winter months when there is least risk to the ecological environment. A circular letter issued to local authorities on 1 September 1988 about their powers and duties regarding roadside trees and hedges also provided similar advice.