Decision details

Decision to be taken on any permanent amendments to the  rural grass cutting policy, following this year’s trial. The trial reduced the grass cutting service of rural verges in 12 areas to only one full cut in the Autumn. This change meant that Highways would not cut rural verges (except for visibility) at a time when flowering is often at its peak and it is the most beneficial time for pollinators.

47.1     The Lead Member considered a report by the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport.

DECISIONS

47.2     The Lead Member RESOLVED to:

(1) Agree to offer reduced rural cuts to all Parish and Town Councils for the grass cutting season of 2023 to determine the total demand and review further feedback.

(2) Agree that single track lanes will be excluded in any reduced rural grass cutting due to safety concerns along narrow roads.

REASONS

47.3     Overall, the trial has been well received, however, neither of the trial years was a typical growing season therefore it will be beneficial to roll the trial out further and evaluate the impact of the trial over more grass cutting seasons.

47.4     The offer of reduced rural cuts to all Parish and Town Councils for the grass cutting season of 2023 will allow further feedback and understanding of the impact of reduced rural verge cutting across the County on both operational and biodiversity impact.

47.5     Single track lanes will not be included in the reduced rural grass cutting due to concerns raised around safety on these roads for all road users.