japanese knotweed on railways

Japanese Knotweed is an invasive non-native plant pest and is considered one of the most problematic plant species in the UK and Ireland. The species was introduced to Britain in mid-19th century as an ornamental plant for large gardens, prized due to its imposing size and sprays of creamy white flowers.

Knotweed’s Sinister Nature

You may have seen these plants at railways while waiting for a train or simply passing a station, without realising the devastating effects that Japanese Knotweed has on the environment and on man-made structures. Please see the information under the title “how to identify Japanese Knotweed“, to be able to identify plants in your in area.

Japanese Knotweed thrives in non-restricted areas and out in the open near railways as the plant is not being disturbed and has ample access to sunlight and water. This allows it to spread rapidly and outgrow other plant species. Japanese knotweed has a vast underground rhizome system that can spread and grow rapidly, blocking drains, cracking tarmac and damaging foundations. Action to deal with knotweed may be necessary due to the risk posed to the safe operational railway.

Notifying Japanese Knotweed

If you believe you have identified a growth of Japanese Knotweed at a railway it is important to report it to National Rail or TFL depending on what region of the country you are residing. If the growth is close the boundary walls of the property, you will want to instruct a PCA accredited company such as CYB Environmental for a free site visit. Please note that here at CYB Environmental we provide reports at a fair price to provide evidence of Japanese Knotweed growths.

You may require a report in the incidence that you have reported a Japanese Knotweed growth at the rear boundary of your property to TFL or National Rail and time has passed with no action being taken. A report would provide evidence of this, with relevant photographs and a map stating the growth area of the Japanese Knotweed. We will also provide advice on how best to deal with the growth in the future.

As a homeowner with Japanese Knotweed, you are responsible for ensuring that the plant does not spread into neighbouring land, whether it be privately or publicly owned.

Report Japanese knotweed to your local council if you have noticed that the plant growing unchecked on council land, or if it has spread onto your own property.

For any queries on the above or if you would like a free identification of a potential Japanese Knotweed plant, please contact us at info@cyb-environmental.com