Firm fined £18,000 in knotweed case
Landmark ruling means other householders must ensure they don’t let rampant weed spread
Homeowners who allow the spread of Japanese knotweed are now much more likely to face prosecution, following a successful case against a Bristol property company, the first of its kind in the UK.
Bristol City Council used ‘ASBO’ legislation to prosecute MB Estates Ltd, who were fined £18,000 and ordered to pay costs, after neighbours complained about the spread of the pernicious weed. It has also been ordered to enlist a specialist company to form a plan on eradicating the problem.
“It’s unfortunate that the council needed to resort to formal action, but we hope that this sends a message that appropriate action will be taken, when necessary, to protect the public,” said councillor Kye Dudd. “Knotweed has the potential to cause significant nuisance to property owners, causing structural damage as well as anxiety over the effect on property prices and the ability to secure a mortgage.”
The ASBO legislation – the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act – now allows local authorities to act against ‘unreasonable behaviour’ that can negatively impact on a community’s quality of life.
Japanese knotweed was introduced to this country as an ornamental plant in the 19th century, but its virulent nature – it grows astonishingly quickly – and resistance to usual herbicides has seen it become public enemy number one.
Nic Seal, founder and managing director of knotweed removal firm Environet UK, said: “Bristol City Council’s successful prosecution is an important milestone in the fight against homeowners who knowingly allow knotweed to spread unchecked.
“Along with a number of other successful private prosecutions this year, this case will act as a warning to those homeowners who bury their heads in the sand and fail to take responsibility. Awareness is growing among victims of encroachment that the law is on their side, potentially opening the floodgates to claims.”