Concerns have been raised by residents of Tewkesbury over the town’s increasingly unkempt appearance following a reduction in grass cutting frequency. The route into the town from the motorway, in particular, has been described as a “disgrace” due to tall, overgrown verges.
Over 240 people signed a petition urging Tewkesbury Borough Council to reinstate regular grass cutting services. The issue stems from the cessation last year of a contract between Gloucestershire County Council and the borough council, which had previously provided frequent grass maintenance for decades. Since then, the borough council has reduced cutting to just twice a year and encouraged parish and town councils to make direct arrangements with the county council.
Reinstating the original level of service would require an estimated £84,000 and a new contract, as the concerned land is not owned by the borough council.
Andrew Turner, a local resident who presented the petition on September 29, expressed serious worries over fire risk posed by long, dry grass during hot summer months. He noted the absence of fires so far as fortunate but warned that any blaze could have devastating effects on fences and nearby properties.
Mr Turner also highlighted additional issues, including reduced visibility for drivers due to tall grass, increased pollen exposure affecting allergy sufferers, and difficulties for dog walkers navigating overgrown areas. He stressed that Tewkesbury’s reputation as a tourist destination is at stake, with visitors encountering neglected roadsides and overgrown paths that create an unfavourable first impression.
He criticised the borough council for a perceived lack of pride in the town’s appearance, stating, “I have lived in the town for 55 years and I cannot remember it looking so shabby.” Mr Turner pointed out that neighbouring Worcestershire demonstrates a more maintained appearance, emphasising the unclear boundary between counties where grass cutting standards noticeably differ.
Independent councillor Philip Workman of Tewkesbury North and Twyning also voiced his support for reinstating more frequent grass cutting. He noted that his ward’s area of Mitton previously enjoyed regular upkeep, which has now been scaled back to only two cuts annually, one of which is a safety trim. He described the council’s cost-saving measures as a letdown to a community proud of its environment.
Liberal Democrat council leader Richard Stanley acknowledged the validity of residents' concerns and explained that responsibility for grass cutting has shifted, necessitating collaboration with parish councils. He highlighted that some parishes have increased their precept to fund additional maintenance but stressed the need for fairness and consistency across the borough. “We cannot provide more frequent cutting in one town than in others without a clear arrangement,” he said.
Councillor Mike Sztymiak proposed reinstating the grass cutting service funded by the borough council as it had operated for fifty years. Despite having the funds and public support, the proposal was rejected, and the council chose not to restore more frequent grass cutting.
Cllr Stanley committed to reaching out to both the town and county councils to work collectively towards a viable solution to address the community’s concerns.