26.—(1) Subject to paragraph (4) the undertaker may fell or lop any tree or shrub near any part of the authorised development, or cut back its roots, if it reasonably believes it to be necessary to do so to prevent the tree or shrub—
(a)from obstructing or interfering with the construction, maintenance or operation of the authorised development or any apparatus used in connection with the authorised development; or
(b)from constituting a danger to persons using the authorised development.
(2) In carrying out any activity authorised by paragraph (1), the undertaker must not cause unnecessary damage to any tree or shrub and must pay compensation to any person for any loss or damage arising from such activity.
(3) Any dispute as to a person’s entitlement to compensation under paragraph (2), or as to the amount of compensation, is to be determined under Part 1 of the 1961 Act.
(4) The provisions of this article do not apply without the agreement of the relevant planning authority to any tree identified to be retained in the landscaping scheme approved under requirement 8 (provision of landscaping).
(5) The provisions of this article do not apply without the agreement of the relevant highway authority to any tree within a highway.