Street weeding trial details

How the trials worked

Throughout the 2024 growing season, we ran three trial approaches on select roads in St Margarets and North Twickenham. The trial period concluded at the end of 2024.

These trials tested greener methods of controlling wild plants on public streets to reduce the use of chemical weed killer glyphosate, following concerns raised by residents about its use and the ask for us to consider alternatives. 

These trials allowed us to test different approaches to removing problematic street weeds, such as:

• Those likely to damage the pavement surface
• Weeds that serve as trip hazards
• Weeds that affect street drainage
• Weeds that obstruct pedestrians

Through the trials, we explored potential solutions to protect our local environment and safeguard valuable wildlife that forage and shelter on wild plants, while still ensuring that problematic weeds were dealt with appropriately.

All trial approaches were monitored closely to assess their effectiveness, as well as address concerns and consider specific feedback from residents.

Trial approach one

This trial took a wholly manual approach to weed removal.

Our street cleansing team went in fortnightly to remove problematic weeds, either by hand or using mechanical wire brushes in kerb channels. 

This trial took place on the following roads:

• St Margarets Drive
• Ranelagh Drive
• Broadway Avenue
• Bridge Road
• The Mews
• Winchester Road
• Sidney Road
• Lancaster Place
• Cole Road
• Lime Grove

This trial also included a volunteer-based community weeding scheme.

Trial approach two

This trial consisted of acetic acid (vinegar) replacing glyphosate sprayed directly on visible weeds.

Our street cleansing team used knapsack sprayers to target problematic weeds, spraying approximately once per month from April to September 2024, with the final spray taking place the week of 23 September. The weather and growing conditions influenced the exact days these sprays took place.

The trial took place on the following roads:

• Fulwood Gardens
• St Georges Road
• St Peters Road
• Kilmorey Road
• Kilmorey Gardens
• Godstone Road
• Kenley Road
• Moor Mead Road
• Cole Park Road (south of the A316)

Trial approach three

This trial involved reducing the quantity of glyphosate sprayed by approximately 50%.

Roads in this area previously received three weed sprays per year. During this trial, the roads in the table instead received either one or two sprays, timed to maximise efficiency and remove problematic weeds.

The number of sprays, as well as approximate spray times, are listed against each street. The weather and growing conditions influenced the exact days these sprays took place.

Road	No. of sprays	First spray	Second spray
Alisa Road	1	June 2024	N/A
The Avenue (Twickenham Bridge - the river)	1	June 2024	N/A
The Avenue (North side, Ailsa Road - Twickenham Bridge)	1	June 2024	N/A
Railshead Road	1	June 2024	N/A
Hill View Road	2	April 2024	August 2024
South Western Road	2	April 2024	August 2024
St Margarets Grove	2	April 2024	August 2024
Brook Road	2	April 2024	August 2024
March Road	2	April 2024	August 2024
Latham Road	1	June 2024	N/A
Latham Close	1	June 2024	N/A
Ivybridge Close	1	June 2024	N/A

Map

You can view a map of the trial area.

Feedback and next steps

During the trial period, we collected regular feedback from people who live and work in the area, to understand their thoughts on the success of the trials and impact to their local area. This included a final evaluation survey and direct feedback from residents over the course of the trials. We would like to thank those who submitted valuable feedback to us. 

This feedback is being reviewed, considered and compiled into a final evaluation report of the trials.

The Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee will review the final report and make a decision about the way forward in 2025.  

Keep up to date

Get in touch with us at weedingtrialslbr@richmond.gov.uk if you have any questions or comments about these trials.