How we treat weeds

Adopted roads and footpaths are treated for weeds three times a year between May and September using a glyphosate based herbicide. The operation can only be carried out on dry, windless days and so it is not possible to publish a programme.

Glyphosate must be applied to growing leaves so there will be weeds visible before and shortly after applications.

Weed treatment on grass verges is carried out to prevent encroachment on paths and to minimise damage to trees caused by strimmers and mowers. No other treatment is carried out to control weeds in grass verges.

Harmful or Invasive Weeds

Japanese Knotweed

When notified we will treat to control Japanese Knotweed on council land where it occurs:

  • within 5m of the boundary to adjoining residential land
  • if it poses a threat to sensitive wildlife habitats
  • if established on an area to be designated for mowing
  • if growing in an ornamental area

Giant Hogweed

Contact with giant hogweed sap can cause severe skin burns.

We will treat the hogweed chemically or destroy the on accessible areas of council land.

Giant Hogweed is often confused with similar looking harmless hedgerow plants such as Common Hogweed and Cow Parsley.

Use our guide to help identify giant hogweed.