Weeds on the highway

Island Roads is responsible for the treatment of weeds on the highway.

What will Island Roads do to control weeds on the highway?

Weeds are plants growing where they are not wanted. Weed growth detracts from the overall appearance of an area and traps litter and detritus. Growth in road gullies and channels can slow down or prevent free drainage and therefore presents a safety hazard. Weed growth can damage paved surfaces, displace kerb stones and crack walls, all of which make maintenance difficult and costly.

All hard surfaced areas of adopted highway are treated to control weed growth. Residential streets, car parks, urban footpaths and pedestrianised areas are treated. The whole of the highway is also treated including kerbs, gullies, around street furniture, footways and the carriageway.

Herbicide is applied to areas of weed growth and the applications are timed to coincide with weed growth for maximum control. Where necessary, once the growth has died back, the dead plants are removed.