Publicity leads to clean-up of rubble dumped in river
But villagers are warned to be vigilant over further pollution in Lambourn
LOCAL pressure and publicity has apparently led to a partial cleanup of rubble dumped in the River Lambourn.
But there is no sign yet of any formal enforcement action or penalty.
Last week the Newbury Weekly News reported how Lambourn Parish Council chairman Mike BillingeJones had made a formal complaint to West Berkshire Council and the Environment Agency over the latest threat to the chalk stream, which supposedly enjoys the highest level of protection.
He warned contractors in the village had apparently thrown rubble, paving slabs, broken bricks and piles of wood into the river while using a digger to remove the bank.
Mr Billinge-Jones told the district council: “I request that this is raised to the highest level.”
This week he revealed that he had not received any acknowledgement from the Environment Agency nor the district council.
However, district councillor Howard Woollaston said the “Newbury Weekly News article was very helpful” and revealed a West Berkshire Council enforcement officer had indeed spoken to the culprits, which had resulted in some remedial action.
He called on villagers to remain vigilant in order to help preserve the internationally-renowned chalk stream and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Nevertheless, Mr remained wary.
He said: “I have checked and they have done some clearing up, but as the river is now flowing it’s difficult to see what is left – and obviously lots has been washed away.
“They are still not fully compliant as they have no Herras [security mesh] fencing along the bank, which is compulsory for works next to an SSSI.
“Nor have they put any night lights or foam bumpers round the scaffolding out the front.”
Meanwhile, as previously reported, the case of the illegal dredging and possible dumping of asbestos at East Garston remains unresolved, two years on.
Director of Action for the River
Billinge-Jones
Kennet (ARK) Charlotte Hitchmough has warned: “There ought to be consequences for someone who does this.”
The Environment Agency has responded to all requests for information by stating that investigations remain ongoing.
The latest statement is as follows: “We take any harm caused to the environment very seriously, keeping any legal action under constant review.
“Following our investigation into alleged illegal dredging of the River Lambourn in 2018, we are considering all possible enforcement options open to us.
“The river continues to respond well to our restoration work, and we are confident the Lambourn will remain a vital habitat for invertebrates, plants and fish.”
Meanwhile, suspicious activity or environmental harm can be reported to the agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 807060.