Kelly Richards has lived at her home on Waterside for the past seven years.
She claims her garden is unsafe to use due to overgrown trees and brambles on council-owned land that runs along the canal.
Overgrown trees and brambles in a Rogerstone garden (Image: Kelly Richards)
Kelly explained: “The back of all these properties is not maintained—the greenery grows up and over the properties. I’m a single parent and my kids can’t use this garden with this mess, and I can’t afford to cut it all back.
“I also have to completely replace my shed and fence. I paid to have my conservatory done, and it cost a lot of money, but I can’t use it because the tree and sap are wrecking the PVC. My guinea pigs are there, and I can’t have them outside because of the falling branches from the trees and the brambles, which have also wrecked the shed they could have used.”
She added: “I have a 6-year-old who can’t use the garden. My garden is a mess. I can’t put my washing out because of all the tree sap, and I’m constantly throwing out clothes.
“I am also afraid that a tree branch could break off and come through my window, which is very concerning for the safety of my family.”
Overgrown trees and brambles in a Rogerstone garden (Image: Kelly Richards)
She has even reached out to the council and local councillors about the issue, but it appears to be a complex matter.
Local Councillor Chris Reeks has spoken out on the issue.
Speaking about the overgrown foliage he said: “It is something I’ve been working on for a few months one home had an issue with a very large tree, and we they are put on a regular routine inspection.
The following was said about the brambles: “As long as it’s not causing nuisance there’s not a specific duty to cut them that said it is a difficult one because of the safety issues they cause.
“As councillor’s we have our roles to play but obviously we can only go so far and if we are told no because of X Y or Z then we can’t do much more.”
Overgrown trees and brambles in a Rogerstone garden (Image: Kelly Richards)
Newport Council were contacted for comment regarding the issue.
A spokesperson for Newport City Council said: “The council has responded to a number of queries from Ms Richards about this issue.
“The tree in question is hundreds of years old and falls within the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal conservation area.
“All of our trees are inspected on a regular basis by independent arboricultural experts. Any works identified by these inspections will be prioritised and undertaken in line with the survey’s recommendations.
“This tree is not showing any immediate safety risks at the moment and is therefore not scheduled for any work.
“As per our tree management policy we do not undertake works to cut back trees where branches may be overhanging adjoining land. That is the responsibility of the relevant owner or occupier of the adjoining land.”
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