Footpaths: Please Consider Others

Can You Walk Past Your House Unimpeded?

People often forget that in the eyes of the law footpaths (as well as bridleways and byways) are minor highways. So it’s worth remembering that any unruly growth from the trees and hedges in your front garden need to be managed on the highway side too. Most people have had the experience of being pushed off the pavement by a pretty fuchsia or a thorny rose that the proud owner hasn’t trimmed back. This is all very jolly if you like to enjoy the flowers and their fragrance, but not so much fun for a pedestrian with a brolly.  Also vulnerable to these types of hazards are people with poor eyesight, wheel chair/mobility scooter users or a youngster in a buggy. Don’t forget too that tall branches or fast growing creepers, which can shoot up lamp posts at an alarming rate, can also cause problems.

The birds will soon be starting to build their nests, so now is the time to get out those secateurs, pruning saws or loppers and get that offending overhanging vegetation trimmed back.

Owners are liable for any accidents caused by or involving overgrown vegetation and Cambridgeshire County Council Highways has the power to ensure that any obstruction or hazard is cleared.

If you have any concerns please contact_them on 08450 455212 or for obscured street lights in the village email street.lighting@cambridgeshire.gov.uk