Hertfordshire County Council has begun a new countywide programme to cut back overgrown vegetation on footpaths and key walking and cycling routes — with several priority locations near schools at the top of the list.

The move follows a request from Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst OBE, who asked highways teams to assess pedestrian routes where thick foliage may be discouraging children and families from walking or cycling. A survey of 562 schools, 150 School Crossing Patrols and fault-reporting data has now identified the worst-affected areas.

Work starts this week at 14 priority sites near schools before expanding to other high-use routes across Hertfordshire where pavements have been narrowed or obstructed by overgrown trees and shrubs.

Cllr Giles-Medhurst, Executive Member for Highways, announced the programme at the Highways Cabinet Panel on 14 November. He said:"As a new administration we pledged to improve road safety, fix more of our roads and encourage residents to walk and cycle. This targeted work is part of that as we deliver on those promises.

The teams will be thorough and cut back vegetation quite deeply so we don't have to return in six to 12 months. Some sites may look untidy at first, but this will ensure routes stay clearer for longer."

The council aims to complete the top 80 priority areas within the current budget and will review how effective this new targeted approach proves to be.

Residents are also being urged to do their part. Cllr Giles-Medhurst reminded householders to trim back any overhanging vegetation from their own property that may be obstructing footpaths. If council teams identify issues originating from private land, owners will be contacted — and may face a recharge if they fail to act.

Anyone wishing to report overgrown footpaths or other highway obstructions can do so via Hertfordshire County Council's online portal