With bird nesting season over, the Council’s Streetscene team is asking landowners, farmers, agricultural tenants, housing associations, businesses and residents across the county to check their boundaries and cut back any hedges, trees or other vegetation that may be obstructing roads, footways and public routes.

Overgrown vegetation can extend across pavements, making it difficult for pedestrians to pass safely and, in some cases, forcing people closer to the road. It can also restrict visibility for drivers, particularly around junctions and bends, making it harder to see pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.

Landowners have a responsibility to ensure vegetation on their property does not obstruct roads, footways or public rights of way.

Enforcement officers are currently inspecting the highway network and contacting landowners where action is needed. Landowners are being asked to check their boundaries and carry out any necessary trimming before formal action becomes necessary.

Once you’ve cut back your hedges and vegetation, please ensure they are disposed of correctly. Cuttings can be taken to your local household recycling centre. Residents can also take advantage of the Council’s garden waste collection service, which is now available at a discounted rate for the remainder of the season.

Herefordshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture and Environment, Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, said:

“We all have a part to play in keeping Herefordshire safe, accessible and looking its best.

“Taking a few minutes to check your hedges and cut back any vegetation that is blocking a road or footway can make a real difference to people using our roads and public spaces.

“We’d encourage landowners and residents to check their boundaries and take action now.”