The war (and legislation) on invasive species is definitely hotting up. Last year we had the distinct possibility of landowners not controlling the spread of invasive plants from their property onto neighbouring land being either criminally convicted, fined or issued an ASBO. Now the local councils have been granted the powers to access private land, without the permission of the owner and eradicate the flora (or fauna) which have a potential threat to the surrounding environment. The powers have been granted predominantly for recently arrived invasive non-native species, but could be used to combat our established invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed, Giant Hogweed, Rhododendron, etc.
Special Control Orders (SCO’s) can now be issued by the Environmental Agency, Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commissioners. If issued the order forces the landowner to remove the invasive species at their own expense or allow the issuer the right to access the land.
We’re currently in the process of producing a guide to Japanese Knotweed Removal which can hopefully answer any questions you have regarding the plant and eradicating it. Guides for Giant Hogweed and Rhododendron are also in the pipeline.
If you can’t find the information your looking for email us at info@soilutions.co.uk or phone free on 0800 0209 307
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