A resident of New Ferry, Wirral, Paul Stevenson, has expressed frustration and disappointment after a large branch from a tree, reportedly belonging to the Oval Football Club, fell into his garden during Storm Darragh in early December 2024. The incident, which caused significant damage to his property, has left Stevenson facing substantial repair costs and distress.

During the storm, which brought gusts of wind reaching up to 70mph, the branch not only smashed through the fence at the bottom of Stevenson’s garden but also broke his patio doors. The experience was particularly traumatic for Stevenson’s giant schnoodle, named Stormzy, who bolted from the scene in fear, prompting an extensive search for the dog that lasted the entire day.

Stevenson has claimed that he has raised concerns about the trees overhanging his garden for several years, alongside his neighbour Bernie Roach. The trees in question are located on the edge of the football club’s pitches along Graylands Road. Stevenson voiced his concerns after the incident, stating, “The branches came down and took out my fence at the bottom of the garden and the fence propelled it forward into my patio doors.” He has since filed an insurance claim, incurring £700 in excess fees to repair the broken windows. However, he indicated that he has not been able to afford to repair the fence due to his current situation of being out of work while undergoing cancer treatment.

Despite his claims for compensation for the damage, Wirral Council has rejected Stevenson’s case. The council has stated that they investigated the complaints and examined their tree inspection records, determining that there was no prior evidence of structural defects in the trees. A spokesperson from the council indicated that “Storm Darragh carried an amber weather warning… Unfortunately, during extreme weather events such as this, even healthy trees can shed branches without warning.”

Stevenson has expressed disappointment at the council’s decision, describing it as “sad and frustrating.” He argued that the trees pose an ongoing risk, saying, “I am worried about this happening again. There’s two trees that back onto my properties and are hanging over my garden.” In support of his claims, Councillor Jo Bird stated, “Well managed trees are vital for our wellbeing and for nature,” echoing Stevenson’s thoughts on the necessity of maintaining the trees that pose a danger to local residents.

Neighbour Roach echoed Stevenson’s concerns, stating that while maintenance staff visit the area several times a week for grass cutting, they neglect the trees, leaving residents vulnerable to potential dangers posed by overhanging branches. This ongoing situation illustrates the broader issues residents face concerning property and safety in relation to local council responsibilities, especially in the wake of adverse weather conditions.

Source: Noah Wire Services