Dorset roadside verges won't be cut back - despite local grass fire risk

The Council say they won't be changing their policy

Author: Faye Tryhorn & Trevor Bevins - Local Democracy ReporterPublished 15th Aug 2022

Roadside verges in Dorset left to grow longer for ecological reasons won't be cut back - despite the county being under the highest risk level for grass fires.

Dorset Council say they won't be altering their policy while we've faced a hot and dry summer.

Our local fire service have dealt with a vast number of wildfires in recent weeks, some of which has started within tinder-dry roadside verges.

The grass has been kept long on verges for eco reasons, and Dorset Council say that policy won't change

In a statement, the local authority said:

“There has been no change to Dorset Council’s policy on roadside verge management.

“In order to maintain the highways for users and improve biodiversity in verges, all roadside verges are cut at least once a year – this cut is scheduled for late summer and is currently happening across the Dorset Council area.

“In some places, where tall verges are dangerous for road users, we cut more regularly, and safety remains our top priority.”

DWFRS red fire risk in place

The area served by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue is currently under a red fire alert - the highest level possible.

The brigade say open space fires within heathland, woods, farm fields and other public spaces would spread quickly in the hot and dry conditions we've seen recently.

DWFRS, and Dorset Council, have urged people not to have barbecues or open fires until the risk has receded.

There are concerns long grass at the roadside could spark up into yet another wildfire for DWFRS to deal with

Group Manager Stuart Gillion:

“Dealing with wildfires is incredibly resource-intensive, and some can take days – and even weeks – to bring under control. Alongside the devastating impact on the countryside, such fires are also very costly, and yet they can be prevented if people heed the warnings and take care. We can all play a part in keeping Dorset and Wiltshire safe from fire.”

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