Nic Seal provides an expert’s perspective on Japanese knotweed encroachment & misrepresentation
Japanese knotweed was first introduced into the UK from Japan in the 1850s as an ornamental plant, but it is now number one on the Environment Agency’s list of the UK’s most invasive plant species. Growing up to three metres in height, it spreads rapidly and can push up through asphalt, cracks in concrete, driveways, cavity walls and drains in its quest for light and water.
Awareness of the threat of knotweed has grown among the general public in recent years due to increased media attention and the 2013 inclusion of a specific knotweed related question on the Property Information Form (TA6) completed by the seller. Yet, research which Environet carried out this spring in conjunction with YouGov, suggested that homeowners are unaware of their legal obligations and rights where Japanese knotweed is discovered on their land or adjoining land.
Legislation is in place to regulate and control the disposal and planting of knotweed. Section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it an offence to plant or cause knotweed
