Monmouthshire County Council’s decision to stop cutting the grass in some public areas has sparked concern among local residents, with complaints that parts of Wyesham are being left to grow wild and neglected.

While the Council says the policy is designed to support pollinators and biodiversity, some residents believe the reality on the ground is far less positive.

Xavier Turner, who lives locally in Redbrook and is standing as the Conservative candidate in the upcoming town council by-election on Thursday, has drawn attention to the state of Oak Crescent, where an ancient oak tree—estimated to have started growing in 1095—was selected as one of only 70 trees in Britain to be dedicated to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to mark her Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

“The oak on Oak Crescent was meant to be a symbol of respect and pride in our community,” said Xavier. “But it’s now surrounded by completely overgrown grass and weeds. It’s hardly fitting for a historic tree dedicated to the Queen. The area in front of the Morrisons store, where I used to work, is also unsightly and badly maintained, with unkempt grass, litter and a complete lack of any wildflowers needed to actually support pollinators. A number of residents have now raised this with me directly.”

Mr Turner added: “We all support protecting the environment, but it looks like the Council has simply abandoned parts of Wyesham. If I’m elected, I will take this up straight away—not just the grass cutting, but also the need to repair the damaged bus shelter on Wyesham Road near the store, which has been neglected for too long.”

The by-election for the town council seat in Wyesham takes place on Thursday.

The other two candidates are: Jem Jenkins-Jones (Independent) and Robert Kavanagh (Reform)