Grasping the nettle
10-MAR-10
Issued by: Graeme Cook
North Tyneside Council is weeding out a problem in its latest step to keep the borough neat and tidy.
Following a successful pilot last year, the local authority will be carrying out four applications of herbicide throughout 2010 to reduce and control weed growth throughout North Tyneside.
Latest EU legislation prevents the use of residual chemicals when eliminating weeds, which is why the council took the decision to trial the new environmentally friendly weed spray.
The first treatment will take place this month on hard surfaces, such as pavements, and around mature trees, with the weeding programme set to finish in October - weather permitting.
Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for the Environment, said: "We are dedicated to ensuring we improve the environment for the people of North Tyneside.
"An important part of that work is tackling unsightly weed growth across the borough.
"Last year our team trialled a four treatment programme weed spray. After monitoring its effectiveness we now plan to permanently introduce four treatments of the spray each year."
ENDS