Council ‘doing nothing’ to beat Giant Hogweed

PEOPLE in Perth and Kinross have claimed the council is failing to deal with the spread of a toxic plant which causes huge blisters and burns on human skin.

Residents say poisonous Giant Hogweed plants are among a wave of invasive species growing at an alarming rate throughout the region.

Giant Hogweed can cause blistering which can take months to heal. Just a brush is enough to start a potential reaction and eye contact with the sap can also cause blindness.

Elspeth Buchanan, from Inchyra, said: “Giant Hogweed, Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam are rampant on the banks and areas adjacent to the River Tay.

“I am sad to report yet again still nothing seems to be being done. Now is the time to deal with this not when the flowers have set seed.”

Giant Hogweed can grow to between two and five metres in height. Though the plant dies back in winter, it grows again in the spring and excels at propagating itself, with each flower capable of producing 20,000 seeds.

Perth councillor Willie Wilson said ongoing work was being carried out by the council and private businesses to eradicate the region of invasive species.

He said: “Muir Homes have carried out two treatments to Hogweed at Low Road. From a recent visit by myself and a colleague from our local green space group this seems to have been effective. Perth and Kinross Council has also carried out treatments at an adjacent site near Orchard Place in Craigie.”

You can report Giant Hogweed on council land by phoning 01738 476476 or email enquiries@pkc.gov.uk.