A DORSET Council decision to reduce cutting verges and other vegetation has left some pavements impassable.

The authority came in for criticism earlier in the summer for overgrown verges but responded by saying it was being done, deliberately, to encourage plants, especially those which benefit insects.

But in Dorchester several pavements are now difficult to pass without stepping into the road because tree growth has not be tackled during the early summer when it began to sprout.

In Edward Road a pavement near the Vicarage is impassable because of shoots from the base of a tree completely blocking the path while in nearby Alexandra Road overhanging branches from trees which used to be cut back in the late spring or early summer are now drooping over the pavement, outside St Mary’s church hall, at barely five feet off the ground, in places much less.

Dorset Council says it is prepared to tackle the problems and has an online page where people can report problems. It also offers advice and what the requirements are for house or landowners with regard to their own trees and hedges.

Mike Westwood, Dorset Council’s Community Highways Manager, said: “It is the land or property owner’s responsibility to ensure that their vegetation is cut back so that it does not obstruct or endanger highway users. Particular attention should be paid if there is a path to the front of your property as obstructing that can cause serious safety issues.”

Further information and the council’s page to report problems can be found at - https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/roads-highways-maintenance/maintenance/verges-trees-and-hedges.aspx