Home / Business and Economy / Prahran Hedge's Ugly Makeover Sparks Resident Fury
Prahran Hedge's Ugly Makeover Sparks Resident Fury
11 Jun
Summary
- A 30-year-old hedge was cut back after council order.
- Residents faced a $2000 bill for the hedge trimming.
- Concerns raised over privacy and security after hedge reduction.

Residents of Prahran are furious after a cherished 30-year-old Cypress hedge outside their apartment block was ordered to be cut back by Stonnington Council. The hedge, a long-standing feature of the property, was trimmed by 20 to 30 centimetres to comply with council demands that it was encroaching on the footpath. Homeowners incurred a $2000 cost for the trimming, a decision they found surprising as the hedge was reportedly well-maintained.
Council officials stated the hedge was mismanaged and substantially encroached on public land, creating an obstruction up to 40 centimetres into the pedestrian zone. This action was reportedly prompted by complaints regarding footpath safety and accessibility, particularly on bin days. Residents now fear a loss of privacy and security, as the reduced hedge allows passers-by to peer into their homes, and they are calling for council contribution towards the costs.