Concerns Raised Over Verge and Tree Damage in Poppleton Gas Works

Local Liberal Democrat councillors have raised urgent concerns following reports of damage to grass verges and tree roots during ongoing works by Northern Gas Networks in Poppleton.

Residents have reported that excavations in areas including Springfield Road and Riverside Gardens are being backfilled with inappropriate materials such as tarmac and Type 1 MOT, rather than the original soil. This practice risks long-term damage to verges and nearby trees, as these materials do not support root growth.

One resident described the situation in Riverside Gardens, stating that “all the garden soil was replaced with rubble with about an inch or two of soil placed on top, with rocks still showing through.”

Councillors say this raises serious concerns about whether proper standards are being followed during reinstatement works.

There are also fears that this damage is repeating issues seen previously on Nether Way, where works left potholes unresolved and verges struggling to recover after heavy equipment was stored on them. Residents say those problems were never fully addressed.

In addition, concerns have been raised about communication with residents. Some households reportedly did not receive prior notification of earlier works.

Local Liberal Democrat councillors are now calling on City of York Council highways officers to urgently inspect the works, engage directly with contractors, and ensure that proper reinstatement standards are enforced.

Cllr Anne Hook, Rural West York Ward said:

“This is incredibly frustrating for residents who take pride in their local environment. We are seeing verges and trees put at risk because the work simply isn’t being done properly.

“There are clear rules about how excavations should be reinstated, and using materials that prevent regrowth is completely unacceptable.

“We cannot allow a repeat of what happened when Talk Talk installed cabling throughout Poppleton, where damaged footpaths were never properly put right. Residents deserve better.”