I am well aware that the grass verges around the town are growing fast, and as yet have not been cut this year. It isn’t good enough IMO, and I am trying hard to make progress to ensure they are cut pdq.
The problem is complex, but arises in large part from the change of contractor for Devon County Councils Highway work. A new contract was drawn up to take effect from this month, and as I understand the situation, the new contractor isn’t contracted to do the work, other than the visibility splays at road junctions and some of the bends on our roads…all vital safety works.
Last year the Newton Abbot Town Council took on the work, as both Devon and Teignbridge Councils had washed their respective hands of the grass cutting role. The contractor who did the work last year is not currently prepared to do the work this year without an increase in charges and there’s the rub. The Town Council have not budgeted for an increase, being unaware at budget setting time of the changed circumstances.
I have spent hours today trying to find a way forward, and have just had more than half an hour on the phone to County officer attempting to find a way forward.
Negotiations are scheduled to continue tomorrow!