Overhanging vegetation can be a problem - not only for pedestrians trying to navigate a narrow pathway but also for motorists who find a road sign covered up by leaves.
Ipswich Borough Council inspects all highways in the town and inspectors report all cases of foliage which needs cutting back. The information is passed on to the StreetCare team to take action. Ward councillors are also good "eyes and ears" and report many instances which need attention. However, it is a law of nature that plants grow! On occasions, the Council team has gone out to sort out a problem with overhanging vegetation, only to have to go back later in the year to repeat the work.
Most overhanging trees and branches are on private land. The Council has to then approach each landlord and request that remedial work is undertaken. This is normally done so quickly but if it is not the Council will do the work and then charge the landlord.
The public can also play their part - calling the Council on the Cleaner Ipswich Hotline, 01473 433000, to report a particular problem. But the biggest thing they can do to help the Council and themselves is to ensure that their own shrubs and trees do not encroach on to the road or pavement.