A Welsh town has been identified as a hotspot for Japanese Knotweed, a non-native species that is causing significant problems across the UK, costing approximately £1.7 billion annually. The discovery was made in the village of Caerau in Bridgend, where Japanese Knotweed was introduced as an ornamental plant in a local garden in the past. The local council has approved new plans to tackle invasive plants and wildlife that pose a threat to roads, buildings, and ecosystems in the Bridgend area.
The Bridgend authority’s new Invasive Non-Native Policy outlines strategies to manage species like Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, known for their rapid and extensive spread. At a recent cabinet meeting in October 2024, members discussed the challenges posed by non-native species and the need for proactive measures to control their proliferation. The council plans to appoint an Invasive Species officer to oversee the implementation of the policy and collaborate with neighbouring local authorities to address invasive species in southern Wales.
Under the approved policy, a list of invasive species that endanger the environment and biodiversity levels will be maintained with individual action plans for each. Control methods, including chemical and mechanical treatments, will be used, with a focus on managing fresh reports of invasive species and taking enforcement action against encroachments on council-managed land. The council is considering treating high-risk areas of Japanese knotweed at an estimated annual cost of £110,000, subject to future budget allocations.
Council leader John Spanswick highlighted the importance of discussions on tackling invasive weeds across the entire authority. The aim is to prevent the spread of invasive species and minimise their impact on the local ecosystem. By implementing the new policy and designated measures, the council hopes to mitigate the threat posed by invasive species effectively.
The approval of the plans marks a significant step towards protecting the environment and infrastructure in Bridgend from the damaging effects of invasive species. By proactively addressing the spread of plants like Japanese Knotweed, the council is taking vital steps to safeguard the region’s biodiversity and reduce costly repercussions associated with invasive species. Effective management and control strategies are crucial in preserving the ecological balance and ensuring the sustainability of Bridgend’s natural habitats.