The Council requires a new Lengthsman
The Parish Lengthsman is a key part of keeping our drainage system working, ensuring our public realm is fit for purpose and that our Parishes remain attractive and lovely to live and work in.
The Council now seeks expressions of interest from contractors who could take on the annual contract to carry out Lengthsman work.
Over the years the role of Lengthsman has broadened to now include works previously carried out by Herefordshire Council. These works have been devolved to Parishes to achieve better value and address the concerns that residents wish to be resolved.
In 2025-26 the Lengthsman role includes-
Minor drainage works – Clearing debris and leaves preventing surface water flowing from the highway to roadside drains/ditches, rodding pipes, clearing headwalls
Traffic signs – Cleaning & removing vegetation
Minor Highways work – cutting back vegetation overhanging the road or footway, removing vegetation from structures and fences, verge cutting and strimming, painting and fence repairs
Ditching – digging out ditches as required to ensure adequate drainage from the highway
However, the above is a much simplified summary of the sort of work the Lengthsman carries out. Council will discuss the full program of work and specific tasks with the appointed contractor.
The contract typically runs for 12 months from 1 April and can be renewed annually by mutual agreemnt. Currently for 2025-26 the annual contract value is £8,000-10,000. Contractors will arrange their own machinery, insurance and any further labour they may require.
Contractors interested in this work should apply to the Parish Clerk, Allan Drew clerk@hfspgroupparishcouncil.gov.uk
