How to calculate if trees will block light in the future

Lugh_2

I live in a small block of flats where there are ground floor flats and a first floor only. The gardens are communal. We recently planted two semi mature trees opposite the end set of flats and about 20ft away, at their request to give them more privacy. Everyone was consulted but the next first floor person did not take in the details and claims that when these white beam trees grow that they will block her light. The idea was that they would be allowed to grow at most 2ft above the window ledge heigh on first floor. All the flats are south facing and looking out this persons window, the trees are to the left of her window.

Is there any resource either book or internet that would give us the instructions on how to measure and calculate this persons potential loss of light. To be fair it is strange that when in the flats that want the trees the trees appear to be directly opposite their flat and upstairs in the next one they do appear to tbe opposite theirs too.Our concern is that if we move the trees a few feet that the person will still complain.We want to get agreement before moving them. The trees were planted in mid December.The Whitebeam shed their leaves in the autumn.

Any idea if there is an expert that can give judgement and how much they would cost. We got a certain amount of advice from the Council over the phone which is useful.

ormus

no one has the "right" to light.
and AFAIK you dont need PP to plant a tree.

keystone

How to calculate if trees will block light in the future

But seriously this is a difficult issue. I suggest you consult the RICS who have experts in this arena.

Cheers

keystone

ormus wrote: »

no one has the "right" to light.
and AFAIK you dont need PP to plant a tree.

Actually I have to disagree with ormus this time. People do have a right to light - its a right to a view that you don't have.

Cheers

The_Pedant

no one has the "right" to light.

See the section on "Surely I have a right to light?" here: http://www.communities.gov.uk/planningandbuilding/planning/planningpolicyguidance/planninginformation/planningfactsheets/planningfactsheetovershadowing/
Ok, it is referring more to planning etc, but it does clarify that a 'right to light' can indeed be established.

Lugh_2

Thank you for your responses. I have taken up the RICS suggestion and will pursue that.

Lugh