A proposed trial of weed control by electrocution will be assessed on how effective it is, senior Cumberland Council members have been told.
The council currently uses the controversial Glysophate weedkiller and Green Party councillors have previously called for greener alternatives to be found but they were told it was the most cost-effective method.
Members of the authority’s highways and transport strategic board were told that use of weedkiller would be carried out in-house and it was planned that a total distance of 3,110km would be sprayed.
Councillor Denise Rollo (Harrington, Labour), the sustainable, resilient and connected places portfolio holder, welcomed the proposed trial of electrical equipment.
Councillor Jill Perry (Bothel and Wharrels, Green Party) agreed and added: “I am really pleased that the trial is going ahead.”
She asked if it was decided where the trial would take place and whether other alternatives were being considered.
Cllr Perry was told that it would be assessed on the cost and how effective it was at killing weeds.
In relation to the location she was told: “I’d prefer it to be in your ward because you suggested it.”
The report said it was proposed to carry out three rounds of spraying weedkiller across the council area between April and September.
The council said verge cutting helped maintain clear sightlines for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, particularly at junctions, bends and around road signs.
In rural areas, it was primarily carried out using specialist tractor‑mounted equipment, while in some urban locations work is undertaken by the council’s teams using hand mowers.
Weed control focused on kerbs, pavements and paved areas to reduce trip hazards, prevent surface damage and manage noxious weeds that the council is legally required to control.
