This is a vegetation that grows on or alongside a path that is restricting access. Vegetation undergrowth can include grass and nettles from the path or brambles, hedges and trees encroaching from the sides.
With 4,500km of paths in Staffordshire, local people are already helping to keep paths free from vegetation, and many landowners also cut back any overgrowth as per their statutory responsibilities.
What is the task that local councils could carry out?
- Landowners are responsible for cutting back vegetation that encroaches on a path from the sides and above. The county council are asking Parish Councils, as part of the consultation, to tell it if they would consider being its eyes and ears and manage liaison with local landowners over most rights of way issues. Take part in the consultation
- Volunteers can help to cut back undergrowth and overgrowth.
- Ideally, vegetation clearance should be undertaken between April and October
How could local councils go about it?
Volunteers or contractors can carry out these tasks.
What are some of the things local councils should consider when considering or carrying out this task?
- The Council has an annual cutting programme, which was produced with parish councils. A list of the paths can be found at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/rightsofway. When planning work, check the list to avoid duplication.
- Give consideration to the protection of wildlife and habitats, as well as dealing with harmful weeds and invasive non-native plants such as Ragwort, Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam.
What are the first steps?
- Approach the Landowner in the first instance if it is overgrown. Use this helpful guide to liaising with landowners.
- If necessary, gain permission to do the work yourself and complete a Landowner Work Agreement Slip with them if needed.
- Before starting, check the site for objects – including wires, cords, glass, fences, or rocks – that might damage equipment, yourself or others.
- Carry out a pre-risk assessment
- Consider the safety advice about use of hedge trimmers, hand and power tools, strimmers , manual handling and use of mowers
- Carry out a risk assessment if you plan to use hand tools, hedge trimmers or strimmers – Example Risk Assessment – hand tools Example Risk Assessment – hedge trimmers Example Risk Assessment Strimmers
- Read the hazards guidance notes and top safety tips for rights of way tasks
- Contact rightsofway@staffordshire.gov.uk you’re in any doubt
Who should I contact to get the ball rolling?
- Approach the Landowner in the first instance if it is overgrown
- If you are in any doubt, or if you would like further advice, please do not hesitate to contact the county council via rightsofway@staffordshire.gov.uk