THE article highlighting the effect of council budget cuts on grass cutting (Warrington Guardian, September 1) managed to show how its workforce has suffered drastic reductions in numbers over recent years.

This is of concern but shows what output is achieved by such a good team within the service, who ought to all be congratulated.

The timing of the information being put out must be said was unseasonal – next February or March would be much more relevant and likely to stick in the minds of people.

These cuts mean council finances are even more important than before, and the maximum possible deliverable with best result is key.

The massive problems again throughout 2016 with poor control of weeds on pavements and road edges plus around housing areas appear to have had some address by the council going forward.

It was great to see the council had reviewed the issue and will make a saving, reducing from three herbicide sprays per season to two, which shall have absolutely no negative impact on residents at all assuming a few things, with the first of three previously being in March – far too early.

The two sprays that are delivered are well-planned, timely, effectively delivered and allowance is made for good feedback and inspections following work so contractors can be brought to remedy missed areas or a poor outcome.

The standard of upkeep and protection of footpath surfaces and road edges plus drainage channels and gulleys shall improve significantly with effective planning and management.

A final thought – can the council afford to continue with the current level of roadside wildflower areas, as nice as they are, and also continue with such things as installing new planters, all of which require maintenance and expenditure while the workforce is reducing?

Was it sensible to have the planters such as the half a mile of them in Penketh – of which the council needed to borrow money to fund as a part of capital works program 12 months ago – and then advise the public that there is insufficient finance to cut the grass as often?

IAN JOHNSON Padgate