Haywards Heath hedge removal sparks criticism

Health and safety reasons prompted the committee at Haywards Heath Social Club, also known as the United Service club, to cut down the hedge on the property boundary.

But neighbours have complained to the Middy about the decision, claiming the committee did not consult them over the changes.

Rachel Sparks, who lives in Bruce Close, said she now felt ‘vunlnerable’ in her own home.

“We have used our back gate through the hedge for approximately 12 years and she has never asked us not to use it.

“They didn’t even let us know. There are six houses which have been affected.

“Two weeks ago we had a boundary which means we weren’t overlooked. It is an invasion of privacy.”

Rachel said the lights from cars driving in to the social club were bright and the noise was ‘horrendous’ without the hedge.

“Our view is three recycling bins and a toilet.”

However club secretary Pam Smith spoke out on behalf of the club, on Wivelsfield Road.

“The club had a large hedge at the rear of the property,” she said.

“It wasn’t a decision we took lightly. We have to protect our boundary.

“It is a private car park and it is owned by the members of the club.

“Some people have been using the car park as an extension to their garden.

“Children use it to ride their bikes and some residents even cross it to get across to the shops from their gardens.

“We have to be aware of health and safety. What happens if someone is hurt by a car?

“It is a shame it has impacted the residents. We don’t want problems with our neighbours.”