Fury over shoddy grass verges

The hardy annual problem of verge cutting has reared its head again and newly retired Ian Griffiths, is incensed grass is allowed to grow so long in parts of Bexhill.

Mr Griffiths, 59, of Fontwell Avenue, Little Common, is former head of Hereford and Worcester council's technical department, said grass should be cut seven or eight times a year to maintain a reasonable height.

Electing to cut it only five times a year, as in Bexhill, made it aesthetically less pleasing. And when cut, long grass would more easily block drains and gullies. Verges in Birk Dale were particularly bad. Next month, South East in Bloom judges visit the town. What will they think of hay-field appearance and what will visitors think of Bexhill?

As highway authority, the county council is responsible for cutting grass verges but has to keep a tight grip on spending.

A spokesman said: "In urban areas we do five cuts a year. We cut for safety, not aesthetics, not for looks. In rural areas outside 30mph speed limits we do two cuts a year."

Rother councillors looked at taking over the service but rejected it on cost.

Leader Cllr Graham Gubby says: "It would have cost 80,000. In percentage terms it would put two per cent on the Council Tax.

"People don't realise how much it costs.

"As a councillor I would always support any complainant who genuinely felt there was a safety issue. Having said that, I always cut the grass outside my house and I know a lot of other people do."

Immediate past Rother chairman and county council member Cllr Bill Clements said: "I had a go both at county council and district. The county does five to eight cuts a season, depending on the growth so it is generally nearer five than eight. The grass is growing very fast at the moment.

"I think most people cut their own verges but this is not possible for everyone and when you see parts of the town where they don't cut their own it looks pretty appaling."