TOWN councillors are exploring alternative ways to kill weeds in the streets of Minehead after formally ending a trial of a biodegradable foam product.

They voted last week not to buy equipment needed to continue with the use of a Foam Stream weed control system after an unsuccessful six-month trial.

Instead, councillors agreed to look for other solutions for the town’s weed management strategy.

The Foam Stream trial showed some success in weed control and initially appeared to align with the council’s environmental objectives.

But it also revealed challenges specific to the local conditions and staff resources in Minehead.

Councillors noted Foam Stream was one of the leading market alternatives for weed control methods, but felt the specific requirements of Minehead’s landscape and the resources available presented ‘unique operational challenges’.

Town clerk Ben Parker said: “The trial provided valuable insights into the complexities of alternative weed management, with staff testing various approaches including combined manual and mechanical methods to maximise effectiveness, although the ultimate outcome has proved disappointing.

“While Foam Stream was not ultimately the right fit for Minehead at this time, the knowledge gained will be instrumental in developing our future strategy.”

Mr Parker said councillors would use the winter months to carry out a thorough review of available options, focusing on developing a sustainable, cost-effective approach to weed control which maintained Minehead’s high standards of appearance while also considering environmental impact.

New proposals for weed control strategies will then be brought to the council for decisions to be taken.