LETTER writers have understandably asked why some grass verges are growing a bit shaggy. As will be appreciated, the council is hard-pressed financially.

Our budget is being squeezed by Government cuts and the council tax freeze recently imposed on us by opposition councillors.

As a result, we have prioritised protecting vital services, especially those supporting the most vulnerable in our society.

We have budgeted to ensure our award-winning and popular parks continue to give wide benefit and have made great strides to save money by ensuring resources are used more efficiently, including replacing annual bedding plants with perennials.

Something has to give. Increasing funding for verge mowing is not something included in our recent budget. Wet weather means we have thick and lush growth and mowers are now completing their first rounds.

I’m grateful to residents who have responded to this unusually green growth by keeping the verges in front of their homes trim.

Councillor Pete West, environment and sustainability committee chair, Brighton and Hove City Council