July 2023
Our new grounds maintenance contractor, CGM has started to complete lots of work across our homes and communities in Kent. Here’s an update on when you will see grass, hedge and tree cutting in your area.
Grass cutting
Grass cutting hasn’t started as quickly as we hoped due to unexpected staffing issues at CGM. These issues were not anticipated during the tender and contract signing as at that stage, all teams were fully staffed. CGM is working quickly to resolve this and get their teams back to full strength.
We have already completed many cuts across our homes, starting with our most vulnerable residents who are part of the garden assistance scheme, along with some of our over 55 schemes, and all reported health and safety work.
We will now prioritise grass cutting at schemes where residents need their green spaces the most, including:
- Supported living schemes
- Over 55 schemes.
We expect all grass-cutting to be completed no later than the end of August 2023, with most done much earlier so you can enjoy the rest of the summer period.
Hedges and trees
Hedge and tree cutting usually take place in the autumn, winter and very early spring, which means CGM hasn’t missed any cuts due to take place.
We avoid hedge and tree cutting during the main nesting season for birds, which usually runs from March to August each year. It is against the law for us to cut hedges that might have nesting birds, so will only complete essential health and safety work during the season and won’t complete any work on hedges that have active nests under any circumstances.
Service charges refunds
Our contract with CGM sets out that at least eight grass cuts must be completed per year. Despite the delay in work getting started, these will all be completed as contracted, so the charges you pay will be accurate.
This means we won’t issue any service charge refunds at this time. We’re sorry that this isn’t the news many residents are hoping for, but we’re confident you’ll have a green space that is tidy and enjoyable for the rest of the summer and the year ahead.
What if I’m still unhappy?
If you’re unhappy with the information and decisions we’ve made, please contact us in the usual way. While we can’t offer compensation on this occasion, we will use all your feedback to ensure we learn from this for future contracts.
- Visit westkent.org/contactus
- Email help@wkha.org.uk
- Call 01732 749400.
We will also recommence our grounds maintenance inspector service in September. If you’re interested in getting involved, please visit www.westkent.org/residentinvolvement or email residentinvolvement@wkha.org.uk