How we tackle street weeds
We are responsible for weed control across the 856 miles of footway, 852 miles of road and 54 miles of footpaths throughout the borough.
Weeds can grow between paving slabs and along kerb lines, affecting the amenity of the local area.
Weed growth is influenced by weather conditions, with warm and damp periods typically resulting in rapid proliferation. The most effective and efficient way to manage this at scale is through a planned, borough-wide treatment programme targeting growth at key times of year.
The herbicide used is only effective against weeds that it comes into contact with, absorbing through the growth that is visible above ground level causing it to die. Weeds will eventually ‘die-back’ and the residue is removed through routine scheduled street cleaning.
Manual removal of green weeds is not undertaken as a routine approach. In most cases it is ineffective at removing the entire root system, meaning regrowth is likely, and it is also significantly more resource-intensive compared to programmed treatment methods.
How we monitor
We undertake robust monitoring of all contractor activities, including the weed treatment programme. Neighbourhood Officers complete both announced and unannounced inspections of our specialist contractor throughout each application period, each year. In addition, the contractor will undertake their own monitoring inspections.
Report a problem with street weeds