SOUTHEND’S Green Party has called for a complete ban on a toxic weed killer blamed for “decimating the insect population”.

The Labour-led joint administration ceased the use of glyphosate in the city’s parks and green areas in 2022 but has so far failed to find an alternative for grass verges and pavements.

Stuart Allen, Green Party councillor for Leigh Ward, has called for a debate urging Southend Council to explore finding an alternative to the weed killer, which has been banned in the EU.

Mr Allen said: “You can always tell when it’s been used by the scorch marks around the grass. It kills everything in its tracks and we now need to find an alternative solution to control weeds on our pavements as soon as possible.

“We are seeing a significant decline in butterflies, bees and other pollinators and we need to be doing everything we can to ensure their prosperity which includes banning the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides. Studies show that it is dangerous to humans as well as wildlife, so we have to look for an alternative before the next season.”

Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment and waste, said all alternatives to glyphosate were being explored.

She said: “Previously, it was our administration that delivered on our promise to stop the in-house use of glyphosate, stopping the use in our parks and open spaces.

“However, this administration is not stopping there, as we want to achieve a glyphosate-free city and stop its use by contractors too. This includes exploring ways to stop the use for weed killing on highways, which comes under the waste contract.

“We’ve made a hard commitment in our administration agreement to explore ways to do this.”

Ms Hyde added: “To do this, we do need to find a viable alternative to glyphosate which keeps our streets safely weed-free in a practical way. Whilst our previous work focused on weeds in park environments, we now need to find the best method for paved areas. We’re planning on conducting tests next season.

“I’m pleased to see the Green Party supporting the administration in this work, and I hope they will also support us in our wider strategy to innovate and find nature-friendly alternatives.”

The International Agency for Research on Cancer labelled glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic” and some retailers such as Waitrose have stopped selling it because of the dangers to human health.

The motion is being seconded by independent Councillor for Thorpe Ward, Susan Badger.