Brent River gets a spruce up

19 tonnes of rubbish including seven bikes removed

Brent River is the focus of a massive clean-up operation as Ealing Council continues its drive to tidy up the borough.

The month-long operation, which commenced mid-December 2006, has so far seen 19 tonnes of rubbish removed from the river, including seven pushbikes and five mattresses.

The two-man team has also removed rubbish from Westgate Parade, Pitzhanger Park, Perivale Park and Brent Lodge Park.

Councillor Nigel Sumner, cabinet member for health and community well being, said: ““I’m shocked to hear how much rubbish has been removed and I’m disappointed that the river and the surrounding areas have become a dumping ground for people’s waste and unwanted household items. It’s disgraceful and shows nothing more than pure laziness and complete disrespect for the environment.

He added that an unpolluted river and parks that are free from every day trash are an asset to us all, not just in Ealing but across west London. To ensure these vital resources are not destroyed the council is committed to fining and prosecuting, if necessary, anyone caught dumping their rubbish.The aim is to have a permanent service in place in April this year.”

The council is using the current clean-up operation to remind park visitors not to swim or paddle in the river and to refrain from allowing their dogs to enter the river as it is extremely deep and not safe to swim in.

January 25, 2007