Blackburn with Darwen Council say 'get in touch' if you spot Japanese Knotweed

Last week, Blackburn was named as the fourth worst-affected area in the country for Japanese Knotweed, with 407 hotspots identified across the borough.

The invasive species hibernates over winter but in March or April it begins to grow, with red or purple spear-like shoots emerging from the ground which quickly grow into lush green shrubs with pink-flecked stems and bamboo-like canes.

MORE: Three areas of East Lancashire named as Japanese Knotweed hotspots

For homeowners, the plant can pose serious problems if left unchecked, with the potential to grow up through cracks in concrete, tarmac driveways, pathways, drains and cavity walls.

The roots can grow as deep as three metres and spread up to seven metres horizontally.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has now said if any resident has an issue with Japanese Knotweed growing on council owned land, they can get in touch and the location will be added to the list of places to treat.

A spokesperson for the council said: "If Japanese Knotweed is found to be present on council land, a treatment plan is put in place to reduce the size of the Knotweed and over time to eradicate it using approved herbicides.

"The council has a number of areas already included on the treatment plan which is updated as we add or remove areas.

"Not all Knotweed is on council owned land and sometimes Knotweed can be confused with other weeds.

"If you are concerned about Japanese Knotweed on land within Blackburn with Darwen please let us know.

"If it is present on council owned land, we will include it in our treatment programme as soon as possible.

"If the Japanese Knotweed is on privately owned land, the council will contact the land owner to provide advice and to confirm the land owners responsibilities to treat the knotweed."

You can find out whether there is a Japanese Knotweed hotspot near you by following this link.