Street Care

We cut hedges and shrubs in the borough that are either next to roads, or in public open spaces, parks and cemeteries, that belong to SMBC.

Hedges and shrubs are cut annually on a schedule between November and March. We refrain from cutting hedges during bird nesting season (March to August) to protect wildlife. This is a crucial time when birds build nests, lay eggs, and raise their young. Disturbing hedgerows during this period can destroy nests, harm chicks, and disrupt breeding cycles. By allowing hedges to remain undisturbed, we help support local bird populations and promote biodiversity. We encourage residents to follow this practice to ensure a safe and thriving environment for our wildlife.

If a hedge or shrub is causing an obstruction, affecting the visibility of the road (this does not include hedge height) please email us at connectcc@solihull.gov.uk. Please note, we do not cut hedges or shrubs that are encroaching from private land or homeowners properties.

Grass Cutting

We cut the grass on SMBC verges, in our parks, open spaces and communal gardens every 12 working days between March and November. However, this schedule may change according to the weather to avoid rutting in wet conditions or if the ground is too hard (summer months). We also cut back grass verges on rural country lanes 3 times a year.

Leafing

Every autumn we clear a large number of leaves that fall from SMBC trees. This is an additional service we offer only to roads identified as being heavily tree lined. All other roads will continue to receive the normal sweep. Our additional leafing programme takes place from October to December, but this can vary depending on weather conditions.

Please note, we do not clear leaves on private land or homeowner’s properties.

We encourage homeowners and private landowners to responsibly manage fallen leaves on their property and avoid pushing them onto public streets, as this can create hazards and block drainage systems. Instead, consider these green and sustainable ways to make use of fallen leaves in your garden:

Composting: Add leaves to your compost bin to create nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
Mulching: Shred leaves and spread them around flower beds and trees to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Wildlife Habitats: Leave some undisturbed piles to provide shelter for hedgehogs, insects, and other wildlife.
Natural Lawn Fertiliser: Mow over leaves to create a fine mulch that enriches the soil and improves lawn health.

By managing leaves in an environmentally friendly way, you can enhance your garden’s biodiversity while reducing waste.