Weedy Chadwell

After a flurry of emails to Redbridge Council to resolve the excessive weedgrowth in the area I decided to call today.  I have noticed how our ward is overlooked every year and keep on top of it for you - not just at election time.  So much so that even the weeding section acknowledge my knowledeg of the Chadwell area.  See the response form a lead officer below:

"Wilson,


I understand that you called the Contract Consultancy Unit and spoke to Tilly this afternoon about the level of weed within the Chadwell Ward.


The Chadwell ward received its 2nd weed treatment of the year in mid-June, so the effects of the chemcial should be showing in many areas. There do seem to be some areas within the borough, some of which are within the Chadwell ward, that are more susceptible to weed growth than others. The worst of these areas are currently being identified, so that they can be targetted with an extra treatment. Some roads within the Chadwell area, such as Shepherds Close, Brian Road, Second Avenue have already been identified, but are by no means the only ones. We are likely to be adding to this list shortly. However, we are also limited as to how many roads can receive the extra treatment and still remain on the programme for treating the entire borough.


The 21 wards within the borough are treated for weed on a rota basis. The 2nd treatment of the borough should be completed by the end of this week and the 3rd treatment will commence next week. The whole treatment takes 7-8 weeks, but the hot spot areas are to be treated mid-way during the programme. As such the main problem roads should get treated about 4 weeks apart.


I must emphasise though that the roads on this additional treatment cycle have to be carefully selected as we can only put a limited number on it. However, with your knowledge of the Chadwell ward, your proposals on the roads which you think should be on the list would be greatly appreciated.


Recent changes in EU legislation has drastically reduced the number of chemicals and the strength of the herbicide that can be applied to street weeds because of impact on the water table. We are currently seeing the effect of this across the borough. Whilst the herbicide that can be used kills the growing weed, unlike in previous years we can no longer put down the herbicide that inhibits germination, as such more weeds are able to grow.


We will continue to work closely with the contractor to ensure that the service is provided in accordance with the contract and legislation"

Sometimes I wonder if my local work is appreciated.  Not all local residents recognise my efforts so I am grateful to the senior trees officer for the given recognition.  I will undertake a survey of your roads tonight and will add to the already long list I have been providing in recent weeks.