CONCERN over the growing problem of uncut grass verges is being addressed by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) contractors.

The Herald has heard from a number of people around the town expressing views over the length of grass verges, their impact on road safety in terms of obscuring sight lines both for drivers and pedestrians, the impact on the pollen count, and general appearance of the area.

In an attempt to address these concerns, district council contractor The Landscape Group is said to be working extra hours in order to catch up on the agreed grass-cutting schedule which is said to have fallen behind due to staff vacancies and mechanical failures.

A spokesman for EHDC’s contract management team said: “The length of the grass has meant that some of the verges and adjacent pavements are looking untidy even after they are cut.

“Grass collection is not part of the agreed work but we are trying to make sure cut areas are left as tidy as possible.”

EHDC said additional men and mowers had been sent out by The Landscape Group, with two crews working in Alton, with other crews working in Petersfield and Whitehill.