Thanks so much for sticking with us this summer as we managed challenges with our grass cutting service. We know the service fell short and we're sorry this happened.
We don't want this to happen again. So, we're running the following consultation for you to feed back to us on how we can improve the service for next year.
It happened last year, why did this happen again?
After the issues we faced last year, our estate management spent a lot of time discussing the problems with Nurture (formerly CGM). We were reassured that the issues had been addressed at Nurture, more staff had been recruited, and that normal service would resume in the spring. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case.
That's why Nurture won't be cutting the grass for us again. But we need your help to decide how we run things next year.
What type of cut will I get next year?
Some of you have told us that you prefer it when the grass clippings get tidied up after a cut. We get why – it can look nicer.
We’ve tried to find contractors that would consider this. But it takes much longer and needs a different kit, most just can’t cover it. Also, it’s a lot less eco-friendly and a lot more expensive for you (see below).
So, next year, we will need to switch to a standard cut everywhere. This is where clippings are left after a cut, but cuts are more often to keep the clippings down.
For transparency on cost (based on costs in October 2024):
- A standard grass cut is 91p per square metre.
- A box cut (where the grass is collected after) is £2.69 per square metre.
Looking ahead... what are the options?
We have decided that after two years of Nurture (formerly CGM), we won't be continuing with their grass cutting service.
So, we are now looking at two options:
- Return to the previous contractor (BEST), a service run by Broxbourne Council in 2022.
- Find another contractor.
It's not just about the cheapest. We are committed to value for money, so the contractor chosen will need to demonstrate they can provide the best possible combination of cost and quality.
That's where you come in. We need your help to decide.
Vote now by clicking below
Voting will close on 11 November 2024.
