Overview

• The Scottish Government dismissed David Hunter’s final appeal, enforcing an 8.5-foot height limit on the remaining cypress under high hedge legislation.
• Keith and Julie Smith initially sought action from the City of Edinburgh Council, which rejected their complaint before they won relief through a government appeal.
• Government reporter Amanda Chisholm observed that the tree cast significant shadow over the Smiths’ rear garden, a finding central to the enforcement decision.
• Police were called to the Prestonfield neighbourhood multiple times as tensions escalated during the prolonged boundary row.
• The Smiths say the dispute inflicted heavy financial, emotional and physical costs, and they hope this ruling brings lasting resolution.