Service Description: Advice and information about wildlife, biodiversity, conservation, nature reserves and biological records throughout the Island.
Also known as:- Badgers, Bats, Biodiversity, Deer, Ecological services, Geological services, Grey Squirrels, Japanese Knotweed, Nature Reserves, Ragwort (General enquiries), Red Squirrels, SINCs, Wildlife
Answer: If you know of knotweed on council land, please let the Countryside Service know ([email protected]) as a record of this weed is kept. The Council will not take action against knotweed on private land unless it is affecting council property. However if knotweed on council land is causing a problem to you or another landowner you should let the council know so action can if necessary be taken. If knotweed is on land where development is proposed then the council can where appropriate require the developer to control it - so if you know of knotweed on land which is subject to a planning application, please tell the council about it even if it isn't a problem at the moment. If you have a neighbour who has knotweed and it is spreading onto your land, the council cannot get involved. However it would be a very good idea for you to take action before it gets near your buildings. It is not illegal to have knotweed growing on your land, but a landowner should not allow it to spread to a neighbour's land. Start with friendly discussions, but if that is unsuccessful, it might be time to consult your buildings insurance company (some will act for you in such matters) or a solicitor. - Related Link