Clearer Paths, Safer Streets: Lib Dem Councillors Lead by Example and Urge Residents to Tackle Their Overgrown Hedges

​Overgrown hedges might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, but they can create major obstacles for pedestrians navigating local neighborhoods. East Riding Liberal Democrat councillors are currently leading by example, calling on the local community to spend a few minutes cutting back greenery encroaching onto public footpaths.

​Why Pavement Clearance Matters
When garden shrubs and hedges spill over property boundaries, they drastically reduce the usable width of a pavement. This creates significant hazards for everyday foot traffic, but the impact is far more severe for vulnerable residents. Narrowed pathways pose distinct challenges for:
-​Parents and caregivers navigating with pushchairs and double strollers
-​Wheelchair users who require full path width to travel safely
-​Individuals relying on mobility aids, walkers, or white canes

​A Simple Job with a Big Impact
Taking proactive steps to trim back boundary greenery ensures that local streets remain welcoming and accessible for everyone in the community. Cottingham North (Lib Dem) Councillor Phil Redshaw, who recently spent time cutting back his own property's frontage, emphasises that a small amount of yard work yields major community benefits.

​"Across our community, overgrown hedges can narrow pavements and make life difficult for pedestrians, parents with pushchairs and, in particular, people using wheelchairs or mobility aids. It’s a small job that can make a real difference to someone’s journey."

​Residents are encouraged to check their property boundaries and trim back any foliage blocking public walkways. By working together to maintain clear footways, the community can ensure local streets remain safe, accessible, and welcoming for all.

You can safely and legally cut most garden hedges in the UK from September to February, after the main bird nesting season ends. 

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