Main heading

We mainly cut grass as a road safety measure to improve visibility at bends, road junctions and accesses. We also try to ensure that road signs are not obscured by foliage.

Whilst safety issues are the most important, environmental and appearance factors are also considered; unfortunately these aims may sometimes conflict with each other. For example, many people prefer verges with a neat and tidy appearance, but this is not necessarily best for wildflowers and wildlife.

As a compromise, grass in urban areas is cut with appearance in mind whereas conservation is given more importance in rural areas. Our contractors are required to cut grass to the following standards:

• on rural roads, visibility splays and a single 4 ft (1.2m) width from the carriageway are cut twice a year; additional cutting is done when necessary to maintain sight lines; and
• on urban roads, the whole verge is cut, to keep the height of the grass between ½ in (12mm) and 3 in (75mm).

Local businesses and organisations may sponsor the planting and maintenance of some roundabouts, grass verges and Cheshire railings. The sponsorship is recognised by providing small signs with the sponsor's name and/or logo on them. These signs would be incorporated into the floral displays or attached to the railings.

Please contact your local Area Highways Team for more information.