Weed Control Programme Update – First Cycle Complete 

Updated: August 2026

Hounslow Highways is pleased to confirm that the first cycle of the borough-wide weed control programme has now been completed.  Our second treatment cycle will commence from Monday 17 August 2026, and the planned schedule for each ward is provided below.

Weather Challenges During the First Cycle

Like many local authorities across the country, we have faced some significant weather-related challenges this year. Periods of prolonged rainfall during the spring and early summer created favourable growing conditions for weeds, leading to increased growth across the borough.

This was followed by extended periods of high temperatures. For health, safety and operational reasons, weed spraying cannot be undertaken when temperatures exceed 25°C, as treatment effectiveness can be reduced and conditions may not be suitable for operatives.

To minimise delays and keep the programme on schedule wherever possible, we adjusted our resources and carried out treatments during evenings and weekends when conditions allowed.

Alternative Weed Treatment trial

As part of our commitment to exploring more sustainable weed management solutions, we have been trialling an alternative treatment to glyphosate during the first cycle of the programme.

The first phase of the trial has now been completed. To ensure a robust and comprehensive assessment, the trial will continue throughout the second treatment cycle, allowing us to evaluate performance across different weather conditions, locations and stages of weed growth.

Unfortunately, we were unable to carry out the trial in Isleworth Ward during the first cycle at the same time as other trial locations. However, Isleworth will be included in the second cycle trial programme to ensure the area forms part of the overall assessment.

In the meantime, our teams are undertaking manual weed removal in Isleworth this week to maintain the appearance of the local highway network.

Second Cycle Schedule

You can find a link to our 2026 Weeding Programme here.

Please note that treatment dates may be subject to change due to adverse weather conditions or other operational requirements.

We appreciate residents’ patience and understanding while we deliver this important programme and continue to explore effective and sustainable approaches to weed management across the borough.