A client is required to trim hedges from a public footpath which is probably only 1m wide but with a grass verge; so there is a risk to users of the footpath, from the works (hedge shears) and from the debris created which if wet can be slippery. I have suggested to the client that they close the footpath for the duration  of the work (2-3 hours) and divert pedestrians to the footpath on the opposite side of the road (not onto the grass verge). As they work, they will clear up behind them and move the diversion signage as they go.

For such a short duration, would my client have to get permission from the council everytime they do the work which would be probably twice a year.

Another option is to clear up as they go, and provided there is a clear path, stop work whilt the pedestrian passes. Not sure how heavy the foot traffic is or the road for that matter

I would have thought directing pedestrians to the opposite footpath is only the same as when utility companies are digging up the footpath

You haven't said what type of hedge it is. This could be a consideration. Hawthorn hedges, for instance, pose a threat, as the thorns are very sharp and can pierce tyres, thin shoes, dog paws. I certainly wouldn't want to walk along a pavement when trimming of such a hedge is taking place until it had been thoroughly cleaned up, and a puncture in the tyres of a mobility scooter would be a major problem for the person concerned. Most other hedges don't pose such a risk; conifer hedges are one of the most popular.

Unless the road is particularly busy, I would have thought that getting permission to close the pavement for the duration would be best, especially when you consider the narrowness of it, and the probable use of equipment such as hedge strimmers, which pose a similar risk to chainsaws.