Pledge to assess overhanging trees as resident expresses health and safety concerns

The local woman had contacted the Roads Service, which falls under the auspices of the Department for Infrastructure, to raise concerns about overgrown grass verges in the area off the Knockmore Road, but also about how low the trees were hanging along the footpath, causing people to have to stoop to avoid the branches.

“I have been on to the council and to Roads Service and no-one is listening,” said the local resident.

"People have to duck their heads going under the trees or they get hit in the face.

"I am concerned about my 19 year old granddaughter walking at night because the trees block out so much of the light from the street lamps.

“The branches are almost touching the grass.

"It is a health and safety issue,” she added.

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said the grass in the area had been cut at the beginning of May.

They also said they would carry out an assessment of the trees and carry out remedial work if needed.

“Grass cutting operations are carried out by the Department specifically for road safety reasons and not for cosmetic or amenity purposes,” she said.

"Our approach focuses on protecting wildlife and promoting biodiversity, without compromising on roads safety.

"Areas that are needed for road safety purposes, such as for sight lines at junctions, will be cut at least twice each year to enable road users to see on-coming traffic when exiting the junction.

"Other areas of grass and vegetation that would compromise forward visibility, such as at bends, can also be cut at least twice each year to enable road users to see oncoming traffic or other hazards.

"Grass cutting in the Windermere Road area of Lisburn was completed on May 3, 2024 with a further cut of the area programmed for later in the season.

"The issue with the trees in the Windermere Road area has been passed to our arboricultural specialists for assessment and remedial works if appropriate.”