Laois landowners told onus on them to cut dangerous hedges on roads

There is an onus on Laois farmers and other landowners to ensure trees and hedges on their property do not make roads unsafe.

That's according to Laois County Council which as issued guidance to landowners ahead of the start of the hedge-cutting season which runs from September 1 to February 28.

The council says "there is an onus on landowners" to ensure that any trees and hedges on their property:

• Do not obstruct or interfere with the safe use of the public road.
• Do not obstruct or interfere with the maintenance of the public road.
• Do not pose a hazard to people using the public road.

County Hall also advice that hedgerows along the public road that require cutting or trimming back "should be cut immediately" with all cuttings removed from the roads and verges. It also advises that adequate signposting should be provided.

The local authority says roadside trees should be inspected and "necessary action" taken to prevent any potential hazard to the public. It adds that such inspections should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.

The council also says that liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.

Landowners are also asked to note that where Japanese Knotweed occurs it should not be cut. It adds that no ground disturbance should take place at these sites at any time of year.

Anyone who detects Japanese Knotweed Please is asked to report the location to the Michael Buckley in the Roads Department at RoadsAdmin@laoiscoco.ie or phone 057 8664000.

Laois County Council's Acting Director of Services for Roads Paul McLoughlin thanked landowners for their co-operation.