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Managing weed growth in Dorset

We take a balanced approach to managing and preventing weed growth across our highway network. Weeds can cause damage to structures throughout the network, which includes more than 2,400 miles of roads.

Our methods include:

  • preventative measures, such as road sweeping
  • targeted spot spraying with a glyphosate-based herbicide only where weeds are present, usually once a year

Weeds can cause significant damage to sealed surfaces, including:

  • tarmac
  • kerbing
  • paving
  • concrete structures

Weeds can lead to cracks that allow water to penetrate the surface. This results in potholes and surface deterioration and further weed growth.

Road sweeping

We use road sweeping vehicles to:

  • clear gutters
  • remove debris that can encourage weed growth

This proactive approach helps reduce the areas where weeds can establish and reduces the need for chemical treatment.

When roads and pavements are free of detritus, soil and mulch, weeds are less likely to grow.

This example shows where road sweeping is the most effective method of weed management:


Weeds alongside a road in Corfe Mullen, with a pavement to the right
 

Report a road that needs sweeping

Start now

We only sweep council-maintained roads and pavements that form part of the highway network.

Tackling weeds directly

When sweeping alone is not enough, we apply a glyphosate-based herbicide. We do this in a very targeted way and will only spray:

  • where weeds are visible
  • when there is no wind that could misdirect the spray
  • in dry weather

Spot spraying takes place once a year during the summer, between 1 June and 24 August. This helps extend the life of road surfaces while minimising environmental impact.

This example shows where a more targeted approach to weed control is needed:

Grass growing within cracks in a concrete road

Report weeds or moss that need treating

Start now

We only treat weeds on council-maintained roads and pavements that form part of the highway network.

We are investigating alternative methods of weed control to reduce environmental impacts. There is currently a pilot project that is testing an alternative to glyphosate.

You can read more about leader of the council Nick Ireland's stance on glyphosate in our newsroom.

You can also view where urban sealed surface spraying will be taking place.