In the face of increasing complaints about overgrown footpaths and alleyways around the town, Brightlingsea Town Council (BTC) has pointed out that keeping them clear isn’t its responsibility.
“It is crucial for residents to understand that the majority of alleyways and footpaths fall under the remit of Essex County Council (ECC),” said the council.
In the past few weeks, some local residents have taken it upon themselves to tackle overgrown areas and has been suggested that a more formal voluntary group could be set up to take on more of this work. However, BTC says that ECC won’t provide enough funding for training and equipment, so “it would not be appropriate for Brightlingsea Town Council to subsidise this”.
BTC’s grounds staff manage various green areas and open spaces around the town, including the Bayard Recreation Ground, Hurst Green, Lower Park Field, the grassed areas of the Western Prom and Millennium Gardens, Gravel Field and some communal and roadside grassed areas. The team also empties some bins.
BTC is also encouraging residents to look after the borders of their properties. “This includes getting rid of weeds at the bottom of front walls where they meet the pavement and maintaining the kerbside to reduce the need for county council weedkiller use. Property owners are also responsible for ensuring that any vegetation from their gardens, both front and rear gardens, does not obstruct adjacent alleyways or footpaths.”
The council has urged residents to report concerns so that they can be added to a monthly report presented at each council meeting.
