Decision details

Decision to be taken on any permanent amendments to the rural grass cutting policy, following this year’s trial. The trial gave the option of reducing the grass cutting service of rural verges to all Parish and Town Councils, of which 27 areas decided to take part. This change meant that rural verges (except for visibility) would not be cut at a time when flowering is often at its peak and it is the most beneficial time for pollinators.

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

DECISIONS

49.2     The Lead Member RESOLVED to:

(1) Agree to offer a reduced number of cuts for grass verges in rural areas;

(2) Agree the proposed updates to the Highway Verges and Vegetation Policy; and

(3) Agree that single track lanes, with the exception of wildlife verges, will continue to be excluded in any reduced rural grass cutting because of safety concerns along narrow roads.

REASONS

49.3     Overall, the trial has been well received, with feedback each year being taken onboard, and appropriate changes made, such as the exclusion of single-track lanes.

49.4     The trial has successfully included 618 miles (out of a total of 1,790 miles) of rural verges managed for biodiversity reasons.