THE new high hedge legislation introduced last month to try and solve disputes between neighbours over the fast growing trees from hell, leylandii, seems to be having little effect.

A Lowton pensioner who has lived in her home for 35 years tells me she pays to have such a hedge growing over into her garden from a back-to-back neighbours trimmed - but she daren't lower them despite the fact that she cant see the sky from her house.

She has asked her neighbour to reduce the height of the trees which shade her small garden, but the appeal has fallen on deaf ears on the grounds of privacy. My complainant believes the refusal is unjust because she says she would have to stand on a step ladder to be able to see over the fence anyway.

And she does not wish to cause friction because any disputes between neighbours have to be revealed when a house is put up for sale - and that could create further problems.

The new laws state that hedges should be kept to 6ft 6in or 2m or selfish home owners could be fined up to £1,000 if they refuse to co-operate. Councils can take action if a formal complaint is made - but I'm afraid that could prove costly.

I asked Wigan Council how they would deal with complaints and their response was that the new legislation is to be dealt with by development control within the planning and regeneration department and staff are currently being acquainted with the legislation and the procedures.

They say the complaints procedure is really to be used as a last resort. People must make every effort to resolve the situation amicably with their neighbour before contacting the council because there is a £500 fee for processing the complaint (£100 for those in receipt of benefits).

However, it must be stressed that the payment of the fee is no guarantee that the hedge will be removed. The council has a duty to look at every complaint impartially and weigh up both sides of the argument before making a decision on whether to take action or not.

The development control department have had a couple of inquiries from residents about the complaints procedure already - but none have moved towards formal investigation so far.

No wonder at such a cost.

Once again seems to be a law which helps the well heeled get their own way.

Would it not be a good idea to appoint area representatives to negotiate between unhappy neighbours in such circumstances and try to help them come to a suitable compromise?