Redruth Town Council launches petition over glyphosate use in Cornwall

Cornwall Weedkiller Plan Sparks Urgent Petition Push

A petition has been launched by Redruth Town Council calling on Cornwall Council to reconsider the proposed reintroduction of glyphosate weedkiller across council land in Cornwall.

The move follows a recent Full Council meeting, where members agreed to take action and encourage support from Town and Parish Councils across the county.

What the petition is asking for

The petition sets out several requests for Cornwall Council to consider.

Firstly, it calls on the authority to accept responsibility for maintaining highways areas highlighted on parish maps, using non-glyphosate methods of weed management. This request also highlights concerns around the long-term effects of glyphosate on the ecosystem, as well as human, animal and environmental health in Cornwall.

Alternatively, the petition asks for a delay to any decision by Town and Parish Councils until the end of May 2026. It states that the current timeframe has not allowed enough time to properly explore and cost alternative methods, including potential collaboration between councils and shared equipment schemes.

Funding concerns raised

Another key point raised is the level of financial support being offered.

The petition states that the current figure of £343.45 per kilometre is not sufficient for councils wishing to take on maintenance using non-glyphosate methods. It calls for this amount to be reconsidered and increased to £1,000 per kilometre.

Call to revisit decision

The final request is for Cornwall Council’s Cabinet decision to use glyphosate as part of weed management to be called in and revisited.

Push for county-wide support

Town and Parish Councils across Cornwall are being encouraged to share the petition widely with councillors and local networks.

Once the petition reaches 5,000 signatures, it will be submitted to Cornwall Council to be included on a future Council agenda for debate.

The petition can be viewed here: 👉 https://forms.gle/Tv3DZML3mmxsMc417

Redruth Town Council has also confirmed it has written to the Cornwall Association of Local Councils as part of the process.