58.—(1) Subject to this section, a network operator, or any person authorised by him or her in that behalf, may lop or cut any tree, shrub or hedge which obstructs or interferes with any physical infrastructure of the network operator.

(2) Before lopping or cutting any tree, shrub or hedge under this section, a network operator shall give to the landowner or occupier of the land on which the tree, shrub or hedge is standing, notice in writing of its intention to do so and, after the expiration of 28 days from the date of such service, the network operator may lop or cut any tree, shrub or hedge where the landowner or occupier has not already done so.

(3) A network operator may, upon the expiration of the period contained in the notice served by the operator under subsection (2), enter the land (with or without vehicles) at any reasonable time.

(4) Where a network operator carries out the cutting or lopping referred to in subsection (1), he or she shall do so in a manner which causes the least damage to property or the environment or amenities.

(5) Where an occupier or landowner lops or cuts any tree, shrub or hedge under subsection (2), the expense incurred by him or her in so doing shall be paid to him or her on demand by the network operator and the amount of such expenses shall be recoverable from the network operator, in default of agreement, as a simple contract debt in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(6) A network operator shall not carry out the cutting or lopping of trees in contravention of an order under section 205 (which relates to the preservation of trees, a group of trees or woodlands) of the Act of 2000.

(7) Subsection (1) does not apply to any obstruction of or interference with signals transmitted by means of the radio frequency spectrum.