An update on Walsall Council’s contentious grass-cutting programme will be presented at the next economy and environment scrutiny committee meeting on Tuesday, January 14. In 2024, green areas across the borough equivalent to 50 football pitches were cut only once, saving the council £50,000.
Two years ago, the government announced its Environmental Improvement Plan to create at least 500,000 hectares of rich habitats for a range of wildlife. In addition to improving habitats, improved green areas benefit residents’ health and well-being, help mitigate flooding, and reduce management costs.
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However, the rewilding scheme across Walsall has come under fierce scrutiny. Council leader Garry Perry admitted that the programme last year was ‘not handled the way it should have’. While some appreciated the strategy’s environmental benefits, many criticised it, complaining that the area looked messy, leading to a lack of pride.
There were also concerns about the increase in anti-social behaviour, road signs being blocked by foliage, and children being unable to access open green spaces.
Further reductions in grass cutting are one of the proposals suggested by Walsall Council to balance the books in the 2025/26 budget. During the consultation period about this, all 60 elected members were asked for their feedback on the strategy—but only 18 responded.
Of those, 12 disagreed that green spaces in their ward were maintained to a good standard, 14 disagreed that the uncut locations were appropriate, and 16 disagreed that the appearance of uncut grassed areas was acceptable.
The council’s Place and Environment Team will present their report to the committee on Tuesday and ask members for their feedback.