Invasive Species Control

Lowther Forestry Group delivers professional invasive species control services across the United Kingdom. Our specialist teams identify, assess and eradicate invasive plants using targeted, environmentally responsible methods that safeguard native biodiversity and landscape value.

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What We Deliver

Our invasive species control services cover identification and site surveys, bespoke treatment programmes combining mechanical removal and precision herbicide application, containment strategies, long-term monitoring, regulatory permitting, safe waste disposal, risk assessments and compliance documentation. From Himalayan balsam and Japanese knotweed to ragwort and non-native aquatic weeds, we develop tailored eradication and management programmes for every site.

Our project managers work closely with clients and ecologists to tailor control strategies to each site. We coordinate with landowners, developers, councils and conservation bodies to deliver compliant, effective solutions. Where practicable, we prioritise non-chemical techniques and always use approved products and application methods that protect underlying soils, waterways and wildlife.

All teams operate to strict health and safety standards, with transparent reporting and follow-up maintenance plans tailored to your site and budget.

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NHSS 18A, 18B
and 18C Accredited

Fully accredited under the National Highway Sector Scheme for landscaping and arboricultural works, ensuring compliance and quality across all grounds maintenance operations.
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Specialist Plant for
Every Terrain

Metrac mountain tractors, ultra-low ground pressure tracked equipment, amphibious plant and robotic mowers allow our teams to operate safely on steep, waterlogged and sensitive ground.
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Long-Term Framework
Partnerships

Continuous approved supplier to a major UK water utility since 1980, and primary supplier to a national government agency under a multi-year regional framework.

Proven Delivery Across Decades of Partnership

Our grounds maintenance work is built on long-term framework relationships with some of the largest infrastructure and environmental organisations in the UK. We deliver both programmed maintenance schedules and responsive works, drawing on a proven track record developed over more than four decades. From routine grass cutting across large asset estates to specialist vegetation management in ecologically sensitive environments, our teams bring the experience, equipment and consistency that framework clients require.

Trusted By Main Contractors, Utilities and Public Bodies

Selected Project

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE AND VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

Environment Agency North Hub Framework

Lowther were named as primary supplier to the Environment Agency within the North Hub region in April 2018, delivering routine maintenance, vegetation management and pest control works across Cumbria and Lancashire on a five-year framework.…

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Testimonials

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Great service for firewood - good quality logs.

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Jim White

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Top class people to deal with. Tash in head office is great. Contracts manager Tom is a great lad. Done a lot of business with them over the years, always first class.

5 Star Review for Wired by Jessops (Cornwall) icon.

Steven Reaper

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Nationally recognised accreditations

NHSS 18A, 18B and 18C accredited for landscaping and arboricultural works. Certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.

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Five Offices Across the UK

Our grounds maintenance teams and specialist plant are deployed from regional offices in Penrith, Castleford, Runcorn, Milton Keynes and the West Midlands. Each office supports locally based crews equipped to work on steep, waterlogged and ecologically sensitive terrain, providing responsive coverage across England and Wales.

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Common Questions About Invasive Species Control

What invasive species do you deal with?
We manage a wide range of invasive plant species including Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam, giant hogweed, ragwort and non-native aquatic weeds. Our teams carry out identification surveys and develop species-specific treatment programmes suited to your site conditions and regulatory requirements.
How do you treat Japanese knotweed?
Treatment depends on the site, the extent of the infestation and any planning or development requirements. Options include targeted herbicide application over multiple seasons, excavation and removal, root barrier installation and on-site burial cells. We prepare management plans and provide the compliance documentation often required for property transactions and planning applications.
Do you use herbicides?
We use approved herbicides where they are the most effective and appropriate option, always applied by qualified operatives following strict environmental and safety protocols. Where practicable, we prioritise non-chemical methods such as mechanical removal, stem injection and controlled grazing to minimise impact on surrounding habitats.
How long does eradication take?
Timescales vary depending on the species, the size of the infestation and the treatment method. Some programmes can be completed within a single season, while persistent species such as Japanese knotweed typically require multi-year treatment and monitoring plans. We set clear expectations during the initial assessment and provide regular progress updates throughout.
Can you provide compliance documentation for planning purposes?
Yes. We prepare detailed management plans, treatment records, risk assessments and completion reports that satisfy the requirements of local planning authorities, mortgage lenders and environmental regulators. Our documentation is designed to support planning applications, property sales and development projects where invasive species are a material consideration.