FED-UP residents’ complaints about motorists’ inconsiderate parking on grass verges will result in highways officers looking at worst-hit locations in order to come up with a solution.
Churned-up grass verges in Worsbrough were brought up by Coun Jake Lodge at a recent meeting, which saw him urge the council to act on rising complaints.
The recent spell of wet weather has exacerbated issues, according to Coun Lodge, and now the council will look at what can be done to prevent motorists from parking on them.
“The council is aware of the concerns raised by members and residents about the damage caused to grass verges across the borough,” Coun James Higginbottom, cabinet spokesperson for environment and transport, added.
“These issues are particularly evident at this time of year when softer ground makes tyre marks more visible and when parking pressures are often at their highest.
“A number of approaches are available, but each must be carefully weighed against safety priorities, practical constraints and limited funding.
“First, the council can consider physical deterrents such as bollards or low‑level timber or steel fencing.
“These can be effective in preventing vehicles from mounting verges and have been used in the past, including a recent example in Monk Bretton, where bollards were installed with funding from a community group and the ward alliance.
“Any proposal, of course, requires an on‑site assessment to ensure we avoid underground utilities, maintain pedestrian access and avoid creating ongoing maintenance pressures, for example, where fencing prevents efficient grass‑cutting.”
The council has previously explored verge reinforcement, such as grass grid systems.
However, these have proven largely unsuccessful, while traffic regulation orders which can restrict parking have been deemed too costly.
“The council is developing updated guidance on managing highway verges, including options for community involvement in planting,” Coun Higginbottom said.
“Looking ahead, the highways service will continue to assess requests for verge protection on a case‑by‑case basis, using engineering judgement and prioritising locations with clear safety concerns or accessibility issues.
“Resources are finite and must be directed where they achieve the greatest benefit and reduce potential risk to the public.”
