HOMEOWNERS could face fines of up to £1,000 for refusing to tackle tall hedges.

New powers under the 2003 Anti-Social Behaviour Act mean neighbours who cannot resolve their disputes over tall hedges including fast-growing leylandii conifer trees can now ask the council to intervene.

Bromley Council has received 30 inquiries about the new powers since the law came into force on June 1 but so far no formal complaints have been lodged.

The council will charge the owners of disputed trees £320 to act as an adjudicator on a dispute.

But before considering complaints, council officers will expect evidence of negotiation from both parties. Each side must set out their case.

An officer will then visit the property in question and decide whether to take action.

If a hedge is stopping someone's reasonable enjoyment of their home or garden, the council will issue a formal notice telling the neighbour what they must do.

If a resident fails to comply, he or she could be fined up to £1,000.

A council spokesman said: "We can now help resolve people's problems. The new legislation gives them hope when before the council could not do anything."

Anyone having any hedge disputes with their neighbour should call 01689 885717.