Severe pruning of Harrogate hedgerow sparks wildlife fears

Harrogate Borough Council has been accused of jeopardising wildlife by severely pruning a hedgerow this morning.

Neil Hind, a local resident, told the Stray Ferret the council’s decision to “dramatically reduce” the height of the hedgerow on Nursery Lane, Harlow Hill could have a negative impact on wildlife.

Mr Hind, who said the hedges were previously well-managed by local charity Horticap, said it also raised questions about the council’s green credentials.

The RSPB recommends avoiding hedge cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds, which usually runs from March to August each year.

But the depth of the reduction, so close to the breeding season, has caused concern.

Mr Hind said:

“Whilst appreciating this is the council’s prerogative it has an obvious negative impact on the biodiversity of the area adjacent to the Pinewoods.

“It is difficult to see how such decisions match the council’s ambitious to be a green authority as well as incurring unnecessary costs for the Harrogate taxpayer.”

The Harlow Hill Tower Twitter account also expressed concern.

Wow! More evidence of our green & conservation focused @Harrogatebc cutting a mature hedge.

Hedge a home to many birds and key to biodiversity?#Harrogate #conversation pic.twitter.com/SWEmdthue5

— Harlow Hill Tower (@HarlowHillTower) February 22, 2021

But one reply defended the council, saying severe hedge pruning at this time of year was common.

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A council spokesman said:

“We carry out maintenance like this to keep things looking smart across the borough during the winter period before the nesting season begins.

“As people on Twitter are saying – farmers do the same with their hedgerows but they use much bigger machinery.”