The unacceptable level of weed growth across the borough is a major focus, the leader of NELC has confirmed.
Councillor Philip Jackson said the authority is “very alive” to current concerns about the issue.
At recent full meeting of North East Lincolnshire Council at Grimsby Town Hall, he said: “The Portfolio Holder for Environment has worked tirelessly with officers to bring about improvements to the street scene, grass cutting and the look of our borough.
“Though there has undoubtedly been improvement, there is still some way to go. We are very alive to the current concerns about the unacceptable level of weed growth across the borough but particularly in residential areas, and we are currently giving this major focus.
“At the end of the day, we are largely working to a budget and operating practices set by the previous Labour/Liberal Democrat administration which we are having to review, amend and improve as resources permit.”
In response to a question asked by the Opposition on the subject, Councillor Jackson replied: “Following recommendations made by Street Scene Select Committee in 2018, weed killing frequency was increased from the previous schedule of every 14 weeks to every 10 weeks.
“The new schedule was implemented in March 2019 and has been maintained throughout the 2019 season. Essentially, we are operating with a budget and procedures put in place by the previous Labour/Lib Dem administration.
“While this has effectively tackled weeds in high traffic areas where frequent street cleansing also takes place, concerns are still regularly received in respect to weed control in residential areas.
“Work is in progress to re-align street cleansing rounds to increase effectiveness of current weed control routine.
“A further review of the general service offer for grounds maintenance is also in progress and we will consider schedules in line with any recommendations which emerge.”
Responding to a question from Liberal Democrat councillor Steve Beasant about the effectiveness of the current brand of weed killer used by NELC, Councillor Jackson added: ” The service has reviewed chemicals used for weed control and sought advice from the suppliers. The product used by the service is a well-respected brand and is used according to manufacturer’s recommendation.
“Alternative stronger products would not be allowed for use in public areas considering we have no way of preventing animals or children coming into direct contact with the product.
“We have trialled some alternative options suggested by the supplier but found these to be even less effective. The 2019 summer has been challenging in respect to vegetation growth due to the large amount of rain fall.”
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