Why should I have to pay (I wouldn't at present) have to pay to get
permission to prune my trees. Even more, why should I have to pay to
(try and) get permission to prune overhanging branches of my
neighbour's tree - if I cut them back without permission I am liable
to a £10K fine.

No reason at all. It is your neighbour's responsibility not yours.

Personally, I don't think that general tree maintenance should be
subject to approval. Also, the rules for tree removal should take
into account the existing tree cover and whether excessive provision
has been provided. OK, if it is the only tree for miles, it should be
protected. If you have what amounts to an aboretum interferring with
your enjoyment of the property, there should be much laxitude given.

How much, with on-costs, do you think that it costs the Council to
process each application for works to trees in a CA? I somehow doubt
whether it's less than £200. Why is council tax so high - ever more
bureaucracy like this.

Indeed. Tree pruning and like-for-like maintenance should be removed
from the system.

I agree. The problem, as ever, is setting a definition so that reasonable
work can be done without bureaucracy and preventing the abuse that is likley
to occur if the rules are relaxed.

Peter Crosland