Trees, hedges and verges

Grass verges, trees, shrubs and hedges around the roadside are known as soft landscape areas. They can be part of the natural surroundings or planted to help reduce noise and make built up areas look more attractive.

Maintaining trees, shrubs, hedges and verges

We maintain the vegetation - verges, trees, shrubs and hedges - on the land that we are responsible for maintaining. We have also produced an annual grass cutting and weed control district schedule. Please note the dates published within this schedule are approximate and weather dependant.

Soft landscape areas need to be maintained so that:

• roads, cycle paths and pavements are clear of obstructions
• drivers can see clearly at junctions and bends to keep the road safe
• width and height clearances are maintained
• the pathways are safe to walk on and don't get damaged by weed roots
• verges are kept neat and tidy
• the area is attractive for local residents and visitors.

Reporting a problem

If you think a tree, shrub, hedge or verge is causing a problem on a pavement, path or road contact us. Either use our online fault reporting form or call us on 08458 247 800.

Important: If the issue is a hazard to public safety or anything else urgent, then call us immediately on 08458 247 800. Do not use the online reporting form.

Areas maintained by others

A large amount of vegetation is on land we don't own; it could be owned by private landowners, district councils, parish councils, housing associations and so on. It is the responsibility of the landowner to maintain these areas.

If vegetation from private land is causing a problem on a highway, we can ask the owner to cut, trim or remove the obstruction. For example, an overgrown hedge affecting the pavement or branches blocking a driver's view.