Residents in Northern NSW may be grumbling about how often they have to dig out the lawn mower these days but they’re being urged to spare a thought for the crews making journeys safer by tackling roadside growth.

Transport for NSW Director North Region Anna Zycki said the recent welcome rain has meant workers have to mow around 1100 kilometres of roadside to keep vegetation alongside the network in north-eastern NSW in check.

“Vegetation removal teams are usually made up of eight people who get through about 20 kilometres per day, as long as it’s not raining and they’re not called out to attend other issues,” Ms Zycki said.

“The safety of all road users is our top priority, so emergency work like clearing fallen trees or branches from the roadway means grass mowing may have to be put off until that’s complete.

“But the public should be assured that Transport for NSW takes vegetation removal seriously and is making every effort to keep it under control for the safety of all road users.”

Ms Zycki said after a long period of drought and last year’s bushfires, the recent wet weather has seen vegetation growth at nearly double the rate of a normal year.

“This means motorists are even more likely to see crews trimming trees and cutting back overgrowth, so we’re taking the opportunity to remind drivers to slow down while passing our workers,” Ms Zycki said.

“We currently have two full teams working on the Pacific Motorway north of Port Macquarie.

“Our crews carry out important work to ensure road users complete their journeys safely and get home to their loved ones, so they deserve to do the same.”

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

Transport for NSW thanks road users for their patience while this essential work is carried out.