Residents across Haydon Wick can expect to see Swindon Borough Council’s weed treatment contractors working across Swindon in October and November. This follows confirmation that the Borough Council has finally appointed an external contractor to undertake spraying across the Borough.
The Borough Council’s programme, which is scheduled to run throughout October and November, follows delays in its procurement process that pushed the start of treatments significantly later in 2026. The Borough Council has advised that all areas of Swindon will be covered, with works expected to conclude by 20th November 2026, subject to weather conditions and operational requirements.
In response to concerns raised by residents regarding the condition of streets and public spaces following delays to this year’s borough-wide weed treatment programme, the Parish Council took proactive action by arranging additional treatment within areas under its own control. While the procurement and delivery of weed treatment on the wider highway network is the responsibility of Swindon Borough Council, the Parish Council welcomes the appointment of a contractor under a new two-year agreement and hopes future treatment programmes will be delivered earlier in the growing season to maximise their effectiveness.
Chair of the Parks and Open Spaces Committee, Councillor Leigh Jackson, said:
“Residents rightly expect our streets and public spaces to be maintained to a high standard. Unfortunately, delays in Swindon Borough Council’s procurement process meant this year’s weed treatment programme started much later than anticipated. The Parish Council is not involved in that procurement process and had no influence over the timetable.
“Rather than simply wait, we took proactive steps to address concerns where we could by arranging additional treatments within our own areas of responsibility. We will continue to work constructively with partners to ensure residents see improvements across the parish.
“The late start inevitably raises questions about the effectiveness of treatments at this stage of the season, particularly as many weeds will already have seeded. However, we welcome confirmation that a contractor has now been appointed under a new two-year contract and look forward to seeing a better-timed programme delivered in future years.”
Swindon Borough Council has advised that treatment dates remain indicative and may change depending on weather conditions. A post-sweep schedule is expected to follow once treatment works have been completed.
Residents are encouraged to report any concerns regarding highway weeds directly to Swindon Borough Council and can follow Haydon Wick Parish Council’s media channels for further local updates.
