Norton grass cutting concerns raised (From Gazette & Herald)

Norton grass cutting concerns raised

7:40am Thursday 13th September 2012 in News By Karen Darley

NORTON councillors are to hold an urgent meeting with their grass cutting contactors following concerns over the state of verges.

The council is also to consider taking on additional responsibility for cutting grass currently maintained by North Yorkshire County Council, following complaints by local residents.

Coun Hugh Spencer said the situation was ‘appalling’ in Langton Road.

“The hedge has almost grown over the path and along with the nettles people are unable to use the area,” he said.

“Bazley’s Lane has had one half-hearted attempt this year, which I presume is the county council’s highways responsibility.

“But I fail to accept the bad weather has delayed the job to such an extent, especially as we are nearly in autumn.”

Coun Spencer said some householders cut their own grass at the side of the road giving the illusion that work was being done by council contractors. With the suggestion that daffodils are planted in Langton Road we need to get a firm arrangement that the grass is looked after and I am all for more direct control of the cutting.”

Coun Keith Mennell said hedge cutting was the responsibility of the landowner and they should be contacted otherwise they could be charged by the contractor.

“Langton Road should be treated the same as Welham Road and we should cut up to the junction with Bazley’s Lane regardless of the speed limits,” he added.

“I suggest we should ask it to be put on our maps for our contractors to take responsibility for.”

Coun Paul Farndale said he had received a number of complaints from residents regarding the grass cutting situation.

“People are very dissatisfied with the situation,” he added.