West Oxfordshire District Council collects hundreds of tonnes of fallen leaves from footpaths and streets each autumn helping to prevent flooding during heavy downpours and maintaining a clean and safe environment during the winter months. This work is completed on behalf of the Council by its environmental services provider Ubico Ltd.
The company uses mechanical sweepers and ‘concentrates on the worst affected areas in the District and those with the highest footfall.’
Cllr Carol Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Environment said, “The scale of the task is huge as we have many so trees along our roadsides and pavements in leafy West Oxfordshire, but it is crucial that we do all we can to reduce the risk of flooding. Leaves on footpaths soon become soggy and slippery so sweeping them up is important for safety too.
“I am pleased to have seen so many residents and businesses clearing up around their own properties and would urge everyone to do this as it helps them avoid the costs and inconvenience of unblocking drains.”
To report significant accumulations of fallen leaves on footpaths or other public areas, residents should contact the Council on 01993 861000 or online at www.westoxon.gov.uk.
If you are sweeping / blowing leaves from your driveway please pick them up too – sweeping them onto the highway just passes the problem to someone else!