Council considers starting weedkiller use earlier due to climate change, potentially saving money.
Early use could save about £18,000 as they would not need a seasonal gardener who removes weeds by hand. They still want to reduce the toxin’s use.
Starting early adds 300 liters of weedkiller. Midlothian used 1,374 liters in 2019, and last year, they used 570 liters; Even with the extra, it is less than before.
They only spot-treat streets and pavements, while parks and open spaces use less. It controls Japanese Knotweed when needed, and road safety also requires its use.
Community groups maintain some spaces, and they ban weedkiller in those areas. Councillors will discuss extending usage times after a report is presented to them.
Weeds grew a lot in early 2024 because of timing limits. Climate change increased the weed growing season, which now includes March and later months.
New housing estates also need more weedkiller. Using it earlier helps control weed growth and makes maintenance easier, according to the report.
Using it in March improves the visual effect and saves resources, says the report. They will reinvest savings in other services, Marie Sharp reported this news.