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- What is Japanese Knotweed
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- Areas We Cover
- Knotweed Removal Swansea
- Knotweed Removal Cardiff
- Knotweed Removal Bridgend
- Knotweed Removal Newport
- Knotweed Removal Torfaen
- Knotweed Removal The Vale
- Knotweed Carmarthenshire
- Knotweed Pembrokeshire
- Knotweed Caerphilly
- Knotweed Merthyr Tydfil
- Knotweed Monmouthshire
- Knotweed Blaenau Gwent
- Rhondda Cynon Taff
- Neath Port Talbot
The Problem with Japanese Knotweed
Japanese Knotweed is considered a serious problem due to its aggressive nature and its impact on both properties and native ecosystems. Here's why it poses such a significant threat.
Property Damage: The Knotweeds powerful rhizomes can penetrate deep into the ground and cause structural damage to buildings, roads, and underground utilities. Its roots can exploit existing cracks and weaknesses leading to costly repairs.
Impeding Development: In areas where Japanese Knotweed has taken hold, it can hinder development projects and construction due to its destructive potential and difficulty to eradicate. Usually excavation and removal is required before further works can be continued.
Biodiversity Threat
Japanese Knotweed outcompetes and displaces native plant species, reducing biodiversity in the affected areas. Its dense, rapid growth shades out other plants, disrupting local ecosystems.
Pictured a Japanese Knotweed monoculture during winter.
Legal and Environmental Obligations in the United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, Japanese Knotweed is recognized as a significant threat to the environment, properties, and infrastructure. As a result, there are legal obligations for landowners and property developers to consider removal, treatment and prevent the spread of this invasive plant. The legislation primarily addressing Japanese Knotweed is found in Section 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended by the Infrastructure Act 2015.