Residents may have seen recent discussion about Cornwall Council’s public realm and weed treatment programme, including the proposed reintroduction of glyphosate for weed control on some highways and public areas.
St. Agnes Parish Council considered the matter in April and was very concerned about the lack of notice, limited information and short timescale given to town and parish councils. The Council also noted the understandable public concern about glyphosate, as well as the practical issue that St. Agnes Parish Council does not have the budget, staffing capacity or resources to take on Cornwall Council’s weed treatment responsibilities itself. With considerable reluctance, the Council resolved to opt into Cornwall Council’s scheme because it did not consider there was a realistic alternative at that time.
Since then, Cornwall Council has acknowledged that its approach to weed treatment, and the way this was communicated, caused strong concern. Cornwall Council has apologised for the lack of engagement with town and parish councils and has confirmed that, for the remainder of this year, its own planned programme will focus on public realm improvements without the use of chemicals. This may include work such as widening overgrown paths, cutting back edges, removing weeds from kerb lines, reviewing mowing cycles and enhancing areas for nature.
Cornwall Council has also said that councils which have not responded to its earlier letter do not need to return opt-out forms. Longer term, Cornwall Council has said it will work with town and parish councils, CALC and local communities to develop a wider approach to caring for streets, footpaths, kerbsides and green spaces.
In summary, the immediate position is that Cornwall Council has paused its planned chemical weed treatment programme for this year, accepted that the consultation and communication were not good enough, and is now moving towards a more collaborative approach. St. Agnes Parish Council will continue to monitor the situation and engage where appropriate, with the aim of ensuring that public areas are safe and accessible while also reflecting local environmental concerns.