COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, October 13, 2014

QUESTION NO.6

QUESTION: Councillor P. Foley

The grass cutting programme in place this Summer has been a dramatic improvement from previous summers and the management are to be commended for that. While the frequency of grass cutting has much improved the grass is still not being cut very short. Is there a reason for this?

I understand we only have a short time left in the grass cutting season for this year but would it be possible that next year the grass be cut tighter? 

REPLY:

Grass cutting heights can be varied depending on the use of the area, the frequency of cut and the time of the year. For example, the grass cutting height for playing fields is set to allow for the extra wear and tear that arises from the playing of games. Grass that is routinely cut too short can be weakened and is more prone to wear and tear and the effects of drought. 

The grass cutting season for this year is coming to an end and a review of the operation will be undertaken in advance of the 2015 season to identify areas where the service can be improved, in particular in terms of frequency and standard of cut.  While the cut height on the large tractor mowers used by the Public Realm Maintenance Section is pre-set in the Council's mechanical depot and therefore does not vary, the height of cut on the ride-on mowers in use is at the discretion of the operator and therefore can vary considerably from one operator to another.  This matter will be examined in detail in an effort to remove any inconsistencies that may exist at present.

The public realm section has developed a set of standards which it aims to achieve in it's grass cutting operation, the acceptable standards prescribed can be achieved by adhering to the correct combination of the frequency of cut and the height of the cut.  It is proposed that these will be monitored closely in the new year to ensure that a consistently high standard is maintained in this regard.