Do I have to cooperate in pruning back a hedge?

Questioner

I have had a privet hedge as a separation between our garden and the neighbours for at least 40 years. Now the new one (since 10 years) has suddenly let me know that he wants the hedge cut back to 2 meters (was 2.75). If I don't, he will have it done by an official gardener and send me the bill. Can that just happen? Thank you very much in advance for your response.

Lawyer

Yes, your neighbor is also the owner and he may demand that you maintain and keep the hedge at the required legal distance. Your neighbor even has the right to cooperate in the joint construction of a dividing wall instead of demanding the hedge from you.