Weed Outrage in Newquay: Controversial Decision Leads to Overgrown Streets

Newquay residents have noticed an increase in weeds around the town, and there’s a reason for it. According to Cornwall Councillor Louis Gardner, there has been no weed control in almost a year. This responsibility falls on town and parish councils, not Cornwall Council, and in Newquay, it’s Newquay Town Council that oversees kerbside weed management.

Responsibility and Budget Increase

For over a decade, Newquay Town Council has been in charge of managing kerbside weeds. This year, the council increased the council tax precept by 27% to cover this and other projects. Despite this, a new policy has led to a significant reduction in weed control, with a 90% cutback compared to previous years.

Limited Weed Control Areas

The limited weed removal that has taken place has only been conducted outside schools and doctors’ surgeries. The reason behind this selective weed control remains unclear, even to local representatives. Louis Gardner stated that a small group of councillors, primarily from the Green Party, have pushed this policy through, despite opposition.

Who Voted for This?

The councillors who have supported the reduction in weed control are Mayor Drew Creek, Deputy Mayor Margaret North, Katie Larsen, and Steve Slade. Louis Gardner emphasised that this decision was made by just these four councillors, with the rest of the council having no say in the matter. He also pointed out that he has voted against this policy every time it has come up.

Call for Alternatives Ignored

The policy not only bans all types of weed killer, including glyphosate, but has also rejected every alternative contractor and method of weed control proposed so far. Gardner clarified that he does not support the use of glyphosate either, but believes there are other viable options available.

Public Consultation Rejected

Louis Gardner expressed his disappointment that no other plan has been formed and no alternative method of weed control has been implemented. He proposed a public consultation on the issue, but it was voted down by the Green Party councillors. This, according to Gardner, is an example of the party putting politics before the needs of the town.

Residents concerned about the issue are encouraged to voice their complaints by emailing Office@newquay.town.