County council's summer grass cutting in full swing

The authority’s contractors have been working hard to catch up with the programme after wet and warm weather caused delays to cuts in June.

The teams are now up to speed and on schedule, with the full schedule available to view online at www.westsussex.gov.uk/grasscutting

The county council operates two different rotas for grass cutting in West Sussex.

In tows and urban areas contractors make seven cuts a year between March and November (except locations where arrangements are in place for district and borough councils to cut).

These are done by teams using lawnmowers and strimmers.

This is two cuts more than the recommended national safety level of five times a year.

In the countryside, or where there are no pavements, the council maintain the verges so pedestrians can avoid walking in the road.

Verges in rural areas receive one overall cut per year, two one-metre wide cuts to stop grass and vegetation overhanging the roads, with cuts in these carried out by teams using a tractor.

John O’Brien, WSCC’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Our contractors are out all over West Sussex working hard to keep our grass and verges maintained.

“There have been delays in some areas, but we are now back to where we need to be.

“Cut times can vary each year depending on growing conditions.

“Normally it takes about four to six weeks to cut all grass across the county.”

He added: “If you have any concerns about the grass, please go online and check our grass cutting schedule to see when we will be visiting your area next.

“If there is a roadside safety issue regarding visibility affecting road users, please report it to us online.”

The contractors do not collect grass cuttings as the cost involved would restrict the number of cuts they could carry out, but try to blow cuttings back on to the verge. Some will cover or fall into drains but this is unlikely to block them, according to the council.

Grass cutting in recreational areas such as parks and housing areas is carried out by district or borough council or housing authority.

Highway verges on the A27, M23, and A23 are looked after by Highways England.

To report any overgrown grass causing visibility issues or danger for road users visit love.westsussex.gov.uk

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