Japanese knotweed: Map reveals live cases in Batley, Heckmondwike, Dewsbury and Mirfield

In the last five years, West Yorkshire has been victim to 1,762 cases reported, making it the region with the most cases out of the 10 regions displayed on the site.

The map shows that 29,536 cases have been reported UK-wide, however the publication states: “Based on our analysis of NBN Atlas data, there are a further 19,702 unconfirmed cases of Japanese knotweed, with thousands more in the UK likely to remain unreported.”

Described by the Royal Horticultural Society as an invasive non-native species, Japanese knotweed was introduced to the UK around 1850 intended as an ornamental garden plant. Its potential to exceed heights of seven ft and to grow in almost any soil condition means it has the propensity to wreak havoc on buildings, roads and other man-made infrastructure.