Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the results and feedback of the weed pilot in 2022 and discuss options for weed treatment in the city for 2023. [Report to follow].

Resolved:

i.             That the contents of the report and the recommendations are noted.

ii.            That the approach to the treatment of weeds in 2023 is agreed, including:

b)      To offer wards the opportunity to opt out of a third spray in 2023 (i.e. not receiving spray 3 in September/October).

c)      To offer wards the opportunity to opt out of a second spray in 2023 (i.e. not receiving spray 2 in June/July).

d)      To cease spraying by Public Realm teams around trees within the highway verge.

Reason: The Executive Member is asked to consider the report and decide on the preferred option(s) set out in the report for weed treatment in 2023.

The Executive Member considered a report that provided feedback on the weed pilot undertaken in 2022 before it proposed weed treatment options for 2023 and possible further work. The Head of Environmental Services outlined the report and noted that:

·        8 wards participated in the weed pilot in 2022 and they did not have the third spray in September/October. Some areas within wards were omitted from the trial.

·        Spraying around highway obstacles was replaced with strimming.

·        Reducing to two sprays did not have a detrimental effect on weed growth.

·        Weed contractors have sprayed the highway network but there have been some issues with performance on defined areas. These issues have since been addressed.

·        Officers have engaged with other agencies, including Pesticide Action Network, the Environment Agency, and other local authorities.

In response to questions from the Executive Member, Officers agreed to engage with wards in the new year, asking them for feedback and to report back where weed hotspots are so that Officers can then create a plan to deal with these before/during the first spray in 2023.

The Executive Member noted the report and requested for some further communication regarding the performance of contractors with an avenue to provide feedback before stating that councillors should consult with residents on whether to opt out of the second or third weed spray in 2023.

Resolved:

i.             That the contents of the report and the recommendations are noted.

ii.            That Officers will write to wards outlining the treatment of weeds in 2023, asking them for information on hotspots.

iii.          That the approach to the treatment of weeds in 2023 is agreed, including:

b)      To offer wards the opportunity to opt out of a third spray in 2023 (i.e., not receiving spray 3 in September/October).

c)      To offer wards the opportunity to opt out of a second spray in 2023 (i.e., not receiving spray 2 in June/July).

d)      To cease spraying by Public Realm teams around trees within the highway verge.

Reason: The Executive Member was asked to consider the report and decide on the preferred options set out in the report for weed treatment in 2023.