Tuesday 13 March 2007

Japanese Knotweed

Recently I have been a member of a committee looking in detail at the problem of Japanese Knotweed and the problems it can cause.

Introduced to the UK in the 19th century as an ornamental shrub its spread across the borough has been spectacular in recent years. It can grow up to 2cm a day and can penetrate the hardest of materials. We saw an example of Japanese Knotweed growing behind a radiator inside a house after it had grown through the foundations.

Among the recommendations of the committee were a single point of contact in the council for all advice and information, a set of criteria and priorities for deciding which sites should be tackled first and agreement on the most effective method of treatment. We would also like to see the Council working in partnership with other big landowners such as Railtrack and give better advice to householders.

The final report has now been referred to the Cabinet to consider the recommendations.

If you would like any more information about this issue please contact me.

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