Invasive plant species in meadow near Norwich is cut back

Families using Greg’s Meadow in Spixworth have been advised to keep their distance from part of a picnic area.

Japanese knotweed in the meadow earlier this year(Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest)

This came after the discovery of Japanese knotweed, a plant native to East Asia which has spread out of control since being introduced to the UK in the 1800s.

Japanese knotweed(Image: PA)

An area of the picnic area on the meadow has been fenced off for the past few months to try and keep people away.

A sign warning of the presence of Japanese knotweed(Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest)

But the work to clear the area, which could take up to two years to complete, is continuing with it recently having been cut back.

Matthew Field, vice chairman of Spixworth Parish Council, said: “The course of action under way continues to successfully remove the knotweed, with substantial cutting back of dead foliage recently completed and the plan on track for the complete eradication of the problem.”

The Japanese knotweed after being cut back(Image: Peter Walsh , Newsquest)

The work is taking place after warning notices appeared in the meadow earlier this year.

Japanese knotweed is identified by distinctive red stems and bamboo-like appearance.

It can grow up to 8ft tall and its roots can reach as far as 28ft.

It can grow up to four inches a day and forms dense thickets which can kill native plant species, making it particularly harmful to the flora of the Norfolk Broads.

Tackling its spread costs the UK nearly £250 million a year, according to invasive plant specialists Environet, with an estimated 5pc of homes affected across the UK.

It can crack tarmac, block drains, undermine foundations and invade homes. Its presence can be enough to cut a property’s value or prevent a mortgage lender approving a loan.