Residents Outraged as Developer Destroys 100m Hedgerow Without Warning

On October 11, 2025, residents in Stokesley, North Yorkshire were left outraged after a 100-meter hawthorn hedgerow behind their homes was suddenly hacked down by a local developer. The established hedge, which had been in place for 30-40 years, was home to an "abundance of wildlife" including birds and squirrels.

Irene and Alan Kemp, who have lived in the area for five years, expressed their dismay at the loss of the hedge. Mrs. Kemp noted that just this year, a family of greenfinches had been spotted in the hedge, along with numerous other species. However, the developer, Tilia Homes, claimed the hedge had to be removed as part of maintenance work on a nearby culvert "to ensure proper water flow and prevent potential flooding."

While Tilia stated the work was carried out in line with the development's approved landscaping plan, the Kemps and other neighbors argue that no such plans were ever approved for the hedge's removal. The loss of the hedge has not only displaced the local wildlife, but has also resulted in a significant loss of privacy and security for the residents' homes.

Katie Hardy, a local beauty therapist, expressed her outrage, saying Tilia showed "absolutely no regard to our human rights" by removing the vital habitat and green space. The residents have now contacted the local council and their member of parliament, Rishi Sunak, in an effort to address the situation and prevent further damage to the area's natural environment.