SerpApi.Org
Herts County Council says residents have complained about vegetation growth following a wet spring followed by recent hot weather. To help more money is to be directed towards clearing overgrown vegetation by deferring some planned non-essential upgrades to traffic signals and reducing routine washing of traffic bollards.
Instead the council will now invest that money in a programme designed to support active travel, including:
> Vegetation clearance along key walking and cycling routes, such as routes to school
> Repairs to more worn-out footpaths and cycleway surfaces than originally planned with a focus on key routes, including routes to school.
This change will help make more everyday journeys easier, more attractive, and more accessible for all Hertfordshire residents.
Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst, Executive Member for Highways at Hertfordshire County Council, set out the plans at Full Council yesterday. (July 21) He said: "Like other Herts residents I too have seen the spread of vegetation growth with heavy rain followed by hot weather.
"As a result, it’s only right that we have acted mid-year to address this, whilst not affecting our planned Integrated Works Programme (IWP), which will continue to ensure the already planned resurfacing of roads and footways are still carried out. This will make a noticeable difference in our communities.
"By making some subtle changes within our existing programmes, we’ve been able to put funding towards improving the appearance and usability of our streets, and these measures will help make walking and cycling to school, work and local services easier.
"This is about making every pound work harder for residents while continuing to plan for longer-term improvements to our road network. I urge residents and all property owners to help us. If your hedge or tree is overgrown and encroaching on the pavement or road please cut it back ensuring all vegetation is kept clear. We will continue to remind residents of their responsibilities.”
