Controversial weed killer could be re-introduced to treat Suffolk's roads

A controversial weed killer could be re-introduced to treat Suffolk's roads.

The County Council banned the use of glyphosate two years ago due to concerns it damaged the environment.

But councillors say the alternatives used haven't been as effective.

Paul West, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: “It is important that we trial different methods to maintain weeds on our highway network, and strike a balance between spending taxpayers’ money carefully, protecting the environment and considering public safety on our roads and pavements.

“Part of that balance is making sure that whatever treatment we apply, it is effective – and that includes looking to reintroduce glyphosate to some of our operations for the best possible performance.

“We’ve monitored the work that we’ve done since moving away from glyphosate on our roads and pavements and listened to feedback from residents. Some were pleased that we were using less chemicals, but others thought that weeds had thrived too much. We agree that the different treatments haven’t worked as well as we’d hoped.”

They'll vote tonight on whether to reintroduce it in limited circumstances.