A troublesome tree has plunged part of a residential area into darkness.
Independent North Portslade city councillor Peter Atkinson has been trying to establish ownership and responsibility for the large tree in College Close, Portslade, for some time after residents complained.
Cllr Atkinson said the tree is completely blocking the light on the western side of the close from a streetlamp.
He said the area is in total darkness now in the evenings and residents have called for action.
He said the situation has been an “extraordinary struggle”.
Cllr Atkinson has contacted several council departments about the tree but Brighton and Hove City Council has confirmed the tree is not on council land.
The tree is on land that was sold by Brighton and Hove City Council and is no longer part of its maintenance programme. The council said officers have tried contacting the land owner but to no avail.
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Councillor Alan Robins, cabinet member for sports, libraries and recreation, said the council will continue its efforts to get the landowner to act.
“We are aware of concerns relating to this tree impacting residents and nearby street lighting,” he said.
“The tree is on land previously sold by the council and, as such, no longer part of our maintenance programme.
“We have repeatedly attempted to contact the owner of the property connected to the land, including in-person house visits, but have not yet had a response.
“We will continue to do so and stress the importance of proper maintenance of this tree.”
