North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) say that in recent weeks their highways teams have seen an increase in reports of pavements being obstructed and road signs obscured by overgrown trees and bushes.

The council are responsible for ensuring trees and hedges don’t obstruct the highway or damage property.

A spokesperson for NYCC said: “Landowners and occupiers have similar responsibilities for trees and hedges on their property. They must make sure these do not obscure road signs, reduce visibility for road users or prevent people using the road or pavement safely.

“They are also responsible for removing dead or decaying trees and other growth, removing branches that hinder high-sided vehicles or block light from a streetlight, and making sure roads and pavements are clear of debris from cutting work.”

Executive member for highways and transport at NYCC, Cllr Keane Duncan, said: “With bird nesting season behind us we are encouraging people to cut back their trees and hedges that could be putting pedestrians and road users at risk.

“This includes hedges or trees that are reducing the width of footpaths, obscuring street lights and hiding road signs. Please do your bit in maintaining vegetation on your property for the safety of others.”