Ealing Council is calling on residents across the borough to help keep pavements safe for others by trimming greenery that goes onto public walkways as well as letting it know about vegetation that obstructs pedestrians.
The move comes after the Thomas Pocklington Trust, a site loss charity along with Sight Loss Councils, revealed that 75% of blind and partially sighted people say overgrown foliage and hedges deters them from going out and are a cause of accidents.
The council says that it can remove vegetation that causes pedestrian obstructions but private landowners are responsible for their own trees and hedges to prevent overhanging.
Councillor Paul Driscoll, the council’s cabinet member for climate action, said: “Keeping our pavements clear is essential for the safety and accessibility of our community. Residents can help by trimming back overgrown hedges and reporting any issues through the Love Clean Streets app. This small act of consideration can make a big difference not only for blind and partially sighted residents, but for the wider community. ”
Councillor Driscoll added: “The council is committed to maintaining safer streets for everyone, but we need your help to achieve this. Together, we can prevent accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.”
Ealing Council recently highlighted the experience of Nick Wilson from Acton who is visually impaired.
Mr Wilson said: “If you can’t see the vegetation as you’re walking down the street, if it’s a rose bush for example, and you can get it right in the face, it’s dangerous. One caught me just below the eye this summer. It’s very scary when that happens and it makes navigating pavements really, really hard.”
