Cutting verges too frequently and too early in the year is a potential threat to wildlife, a charity has warned.

According to the Monmouth-based charity Bees for Development, overly manicured verges have a negative impact on our wildlife.

Martin Jones, project officer at Bees for Development, said: "Regular verge cutting destroys bio-diversity and promotes degradation. By mowing the grass and flowers, you're taking away a vital food source for wild animals.

"Verges only need to be trimmed a maximum of two to three times a year, and yet Monmouthshire County Council trims them 16 times a year."

Aesthetically, Martin argues that the verges look much nicer when grass and flowers are left to grow naturally.

In addition to encouraging degradation and being visually displeasing, Bees for Development argue there are economic problems associated with verge cutting.

"If the council stopped trimming the verges so often they could save Welsh taxpayers' money," added Martin.

"The money saved could be used to provide the public with facilities such as libraries and community centres which would benefit the town.

"It seems that the council hasn't taken a rational look at the issue. We would like to work with and encourage the council to be more pragmatic and review what they need to cut and how often. This will save money and improve the look of the town."

Nicola Bradbear, director of Bees for Development, said: "We would like to see a 'bee friendly' Monmouth where people mow their lawns only when necessary, and where the council plants instead of cuts."

The nature charity Plantlife says that when road verges are managed correctly, they can host a wide range of diverse species and that good management of the verges involves doing less rather than more.

They suggest that road verges link habitats and are important for wildlife to thrive. They also represent a remnant of grassland that has suffered over the years.

A spokesperson for Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) said: "The council mows grass on school grounds, housing areas and similar sites 14 times a year while roadside verges are generally trimmed twice a year.

"Occasionally, safety aspects dictate an earlier cut which is restricted to a 0.5m width, with the remainder of the verge completed in August.

"The special cutting regime for the Road Verge Wildlife Reserves has remained unchanged for a number of years and the council is to review the system to ensure the management reflects current thinking with regard to pollinators and that the benefits for wildlife throughout its estate management are maximised.

"The council welcomes any information from residents who consider a verge is worth special attention."