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MSP's high hedge bill takes step forward | |
(about 3 hours later) | |
New laws to tackle the thorny issue of neighbourly disputes over high hedges are moving forward. | |
SNP MSP Mark McDonald has been given the green light to begin to draft a backbench bill on the issue. | |
Disputes over the size of Leylandii and other shrubs have often led to confrontation between residents, which has been dubbed "hedge rage". | |
The bill's measures include improvements to mediation to resolve disputes. | |
The Scottish Parliament's local government committee has said no further consultation is needed on the proposals, meaning Mr McDonald can move his plans forward. | |
He now has to gain the support of at least 18 MSPs representing at least half of Holyrood's political parties to take the bill forward for full consideration in parliament. | |
Mr McDonald said: "The best way to achieve an effective, practical and sustainable resolution to the long-standing problem is by providing local authorities with powers of last resort. | |
"It may not sound like the most exciting piece of legislation but I know that for many people, this is an issue that blights their lives and damages neighbourhood relationships." | |
The MSP said a similar legislative route had been taken in England, Wales, the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland. |