These are the Japanese knotweed hotspots in the UK
One of the UK's most destructive plants, Japanese knotweed, can deter buyers, make a property difficult to sell and can cost thousands to remedy. But where is it most likely to be found in the UK?
New research conducted by the experts at Environet UK has found the top Japanese knotweed hotspots around the country. By analysing data from an online heat map — which launched earlier this year — they were able to record Japanese knotweed sightings across the UK.
They discovered that Bolton in Lancashire is the worst affected area overall, with 652 infestations within a 4km radius. This is closely followed by Bristol in the South West and Capel Garmon in Conwy, North Wales. When it came to analysing areas in London, Clapham Common was the worst affected.
Japanese knotweed grows aggressively along railways, waterways, in parks, and gardens across the country. Without professional help, it can be incredibly challenging to deal with.
Top Japanese Knotweed hotspots in each region of the UK
Bolton, Lancashire
Bristol
Capel Garmon, Conwy
Rotherham
Nottingham
Clapham Common
Glasgow
Madeley, Shropshire
Shanklin, Isle of Wight
Norwich
Newcastle
"Japanese knotweed has become a major problem across the UK, with areas of industrial heritage such as Bolton and North Wales particularly badly affected," Nic Seal, Founder and MD of Environet explains.
"Anyone thinking about buying a property in or around these hotspots would be wise to check the number of infestations in the proximity of their postcode and consider instructing a specialist to carry out a Japanese knotweed survey on the property to check for evidence of the plant," Nic continues.
To find out if your local area has been affected, see the interactive map here.
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