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High hedge bill brought by MSP Mark McDonald MSP's high hedge bill takes step forward
(about 3 hours later)
An MSP will begin his bid to create a law which would stop householders allowing their gardens to encroach on a neighbouring property. New laws to tackle the thorny issue of neighbourly disputes over high hedges are moving forward.
Backbencher Mark McDonald announced in the autumn his intention to bring forward the members' bill. SNP MSP Mark McDonald has been given the green light to begin to draft a backbench bill on the issue.
His plea will come before the Local Government Committee later. Disputes over the size of Leylandii and other shrubs have often led to confrontation between residents, which has been dubbed "hedge rage".
The measures are expected to include hedge height restrictions and improvements to mediation to resolve disputes. The bill's measures include improvements to mediation to resolve disputes.
The Scottish government has already indicated its support for Mr McDonald's bill. 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.
The Scottish National Party pledged in its 2011 manifesto to tackle the issue. 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.