Protecting Grass Verges - Leigh-on-Sea

Share this story!

Leigh On Sea News: Protecting Grass Verges – GREEN Party Campaigner Lauren Ekins is urging Southend Council to address the damage to grass verges in Belfairs and West Leigh,

Protecting Grass Verges - GREEN Party Campaigner Lauren Ekins is urging Southend Council to address the damage to grass verges in Belfairs and West Leigh,

GREEN Party Campaigner Lauren Ekins is urging Southend Council to address the damage to grass verges in Belfairs and West Leigh, proposing proactive solutions such as planting bushes to prevent vehicle misuse while enhancing biodiversity.

Coun Stuart Allen of Leigh Ward highlighted that the issue extends beyond verges, with road signs, bollards, and other infrastructure suffering damage, leading to rising costs for taxpayers.

The Green Party advocates for sustainable urban design and potential delivery licensing schemes to reduce damage, promote biodiversity, and ensure the city’s public spaces are well-maintained.

Concerned about the deterioration of grass verges across the city, Ms Ekins is calling on the council to implement measures that would curb damage caused by vehicles.

In recent years, verges in areas such as Belfairs and West Leigh have suffered from neglect and misuse, with delivery vans and residents frequently driving over them for convenience. Ms Ekins believes the city must adopt a proactive approach to prevent further degradation and is asking a question at full council on Thursday March 20.

“Some verges are in a terrible state,” Ms Ekins said. “While enforcement through byelaws and fines is an option, I believe it’s far better to design solutions that prevent this from happening in the first place.

“Canvey Road in West Leigh provides an excellent example – planting bushes not only deters vehicles but also enhances biodiversity.”

Coun Allen, Councillor for Leigh Ward echoed Ms Ekins’ concerns, noting that the problem extends beyond verges.

“It’s not just the grass – our entire infrastructure is suffering.

“Signs are being bent and twisted, bollards are being knocked down, and all of this comes at a significant cost to taxpayers. We need to explore solutions, whether through better urban design or a delivery licensing scheme to help offset these expenses.”

The Green Party continues to advocate for policies that promote sustainability, improve public spaces, and foster biodiversity, emphasising that well-maintained infrastructure benefits both residents and the environment.

Picture: Campaigner Lauren Ekins.

about author

Editor