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The council currently uses weedkillers to:
- reduce trip hazards and improve access on pavements and paths
- maintain leisure and sports areas
- meet legal duties to control invasive species.
North Somerset Council is currently reviewing its weed management policies and practices, and is considering whether there are viable alternatives to weedkillers. As part of this, the council is keen to hear from the community on this issue.
The council is hosting a Weed Management Inquiry Day on Thursday 29 February. Starting at 10am, the event is taking place in the New Council Chamber, in Weston-super-Mare’s Town Hall.
During the event, which is set to last until about 4pm, councillors will be hearing evidence from council officers, representatives from other local authorities and some local groups, before an open roundtable discussion around potential areas for improvement in managing weeds.
Councillors are particularly keen to hear from key local stakeholders, including environmental groups, volunteer groups and local town and parish councils, to help shape policy in this area.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for climate, waste and sustainability, said: “As we work towards creating a greener North Somerset, it’s crucial that we review how we’re looking after the land the council is responsible for, and particularly the use of weedkillers.
“Weedkillers are a controversial issue. We’re considering a range of alternatives, and we want to find an approach that benefits the environment and our residents, while allowing us to maintain our land in a practical and realistic way.”
Councillor Steve Bridger, the Chairman of North Somerset Council’s Transport, Climate and Communities Policy and Scrutiny Panel, which is organising the event, said: “The council’s use of weedkillers has significantly reduced in recent years, with minimal use in parks and open spaces, but it’s vital that we get our approach to weeds right.
“We know people have strong opinions about the use of weedkillers, so it’s really important that we work with the local community and use their views to help shape policy.
“I’d urge those who are interested in this topic to join us at the Inquiry Day on 29 February. We’re keen to understand your thoughts on the subject, so if you would like to share your views or insights related to weed management as part of the proceedings, please do get in touch as we would like to listen.”
If you would like to participate in the Inquiry Day, please email Tess Skelly (Tess.Skelly@n-somerset.gov.uk) by Wednesday 28 February.