HOMEOWNERS no longer need to suffer the misery caused by high hedges.

New powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 mean neighbours who cannot resolve disputes can now ask their council to intervene.

Since the legislation came into force on June 1, Bexley Council has received 30 inquiries.

But no formal complaints have yet been lodged.

It says it will charge the public £135 to act as their adjudicator during a dispute.

Before the council considers complaints it will expect evidence of negotiation from both parties in attempting to settle a dispute.

They should only contact the council as a last resort.

If councils are satisfied a complaint meets the legal tests, such as a hedge being over 2m high, they will invite the other neighbour to set out their case.

After the council has both sides of the story and an officer has inspected the hedge, it will then decide whether or not to take any action.

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

If a neighbour fails to comply with the council's orders they could be fined up to £1,000.

A council spokesman said: "Our charges are considerably lower than other councils.

"But we hope people will be able to resolve matters amicably before turning to us."

Are you having problems with high hedges? Are your neighbours refusing to act? Call the newsroom on 01689 885717.