Overgrown hedges and shrubs on council property
Hedges and shrubs are pruned regularly but the timing and frequency depends on a number of factors, including the location and the species.
- Parks and green spaces: Hedges in parks are pruned once a year (regardless of species).
- Roads: Hedges may be pruned more frequently where traffic sightlines need to be considered.
- Hedges: Hedges are cut once each year on a scheduled basis - usually during the period July to October.
Wherever possible, we aim to avoid the cutting of hedges during the bird nesting season.
We take action if a hedge, tree or shrub:
- overhangs onto a road or footpath, endangering or obstructing the passage of vehicles or pedestrians, or
- obstructs or interferes with the view of drivers of vehicles or a light from a public streetlamp.
Report overhanging/obstructing hedges
Overgrown base of trees (basal) and shrubs
Sometimes small shoots that come out from the base and trunk of trees can cause obstruction to pedestrians and sightline problems for motorists.
- General trees are pruned once a year (during the winter).
- Lime trees are cut twice a year.
If there is a safety-related problem, individual trees can be dealt with at other times.
If you feel any of the above has overgrown or is obstructing a sightline, pavement, road or sign, report you can report it online.
Report basal growth
Weed control
Weeds are normally controlled by the application of chemicals (by spraying); although in some situations, they may be removed by other methods. The detail and frequency depends upon the location.
- Road areas: Footways and road channels are sprayed 3 times a year. See our Weed treatment web page for details.
- Parks and housing estates: Shrub beds and rose beds are maintained through the spring and summer, as required, along with a winter maintenance visit during October and February.
Report weeds