As a new UK based member of this group I am interested in advice on
dealing with my local authority who are prosecuting me for keeping dead
wood in my garden.

I know what I am doing isn't causing anyone any problems but am finding
it difficult to convince the courts. The council are claiming that they
are responding to complaints from neighbours and have brought a case
against me under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act,
claiming my land is causing a loss of visual and residential amenity.

They are also relying on the testimony of one witness and the
photographs he has taken of my garden, many of which are of views
available to no one because they were taken from the top of a 2m
[6'6''] fence.

The wood is principally Cherry, Ash, Apple, Pear, Cedar and Yew. Some
of it is for my hobby of woodcarving and turning, some for burning and
the rest is left on the ground to encourage wildlife.

So, my question is are there any members of this list who can offer any
insight? And any British members who are experts in their field who can
offer a British slant on the true legal situation please?

Graham Ellison