North Somerset Council is inviting the community to participate in an Inquiry Day looking at its weed management practices.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, February 29.
It currently uses weedkillers to maintain streets, leisure spaces, and comply with its obligation to control invasive species.
However, in light of pressing ecological concerns, the council is now considering possible alternatives to weedkillers and seek the input of the community to identify the best solution.
The Weed Management Inquiry Day will start at 10am in the New Council Chamber, situated in Weston-super-Mare’s Town Hall.
Councillors are keen to hear evidence on the use of weedkillers from various local groups, representatives from other local authorities, and council officers.
Their perspectives will assist in shaping the course that the council's weed management practices will take in the future.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s executive member for climate, waste and sustainability, emphasised the council's commitment to low-impact alternatives.
She said: "As we work towards creating a greener North Somerset, it’s crucial that we review how we’re looking after the land the council is responsible for, and particularly the use of weedkillers.
"We’re considering a range of alternatives, and we want to find an approach that benefits the environment and our residents, while allowing us to maintain our land in a practical and realistic way."
Echoing Waite's sentiments, Councillor Steve Bridger, the chairman of North Somerset Council’s transport, climate and communities policy and scrutiny Panel, which is organising the event, said: "The council’s use of weedkillers has significantly reduced in recent years, with minimal use in parks and open spaces, but it’s vital that we get our approach to weeds right.
"We know people have strong opinions about the use of weedkillers, so it’s really important that we work with the local community and use their views to help shape policy.
"I’d urge those who are interested in this topic to join us at the Inquiry Day on 29 February."
The day's session is expected to last until approximately 4pm, where all opinions and perspectives will be welcomed in the interest of creating a greener North Somerset.
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