The Council of Newham met on Monday 18 September 2023 to discuss a 'Clean Borough' theme, reviewing progress on reducing fly-tipping and improving street cleanliness. Key decisions included noting progress on 'A Clean Borough' ambitions and supporting future work to accelerate these plans. A motion proposing a Circular Economy Action Plan was debated and ultimately lost.

'A Clean Borough' Progress and Future Plans

The Council considered a report on 'Building a Fairer Newham - Delivering a Clean Borough', presented by Councillor James Asser, Statutory Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainable Transport. The report highlighted improvements in street cleanliness and a reduction in fly-tipping, while acknowledging that further work is needed to meet the Council's commitments. Following a debate, the Council unanimously resolved to note and support the impending programme of work to accelerate 'Building a Fairer Newham' plans to deliver a clean borough, and to commit to active involvement in these plans, working with residents, communities, and businesses.

Circular Economy Action Plan Motion

A motion proposing the development of a Circular Economy Action Plan was put forward by Councillor Nate Higgins and seconded by Councillor Danny Keeling. The motion highlighted concerns about Newham's recycling rates, the lack of a dedicated Circular Economy Action Plan, and the need to address issues such as food waste collection and carton recycling. It also called for the introduction of a Newham-based Library of Things, free bulky waste collection, and support for a national Deposit Return Scheme. The motion also aimed to prioritise supporting Newham's Circular Economy during the development of the local plan. Despite the detailed arguments presented, the motion was ultimately lost.

Deputation from Manor Park Politics Summer School

Students from the Manor Park Politics Summer School delivered a deputation to the Council, presenting a video they had created on how to make Newham a cleaner place. Councillor Mariam Dawood, who founded the school, introduced the students and spoke about their work in learning about politics and community change. The Chair of the Council thanked the students for their interesting deputation and really excellent video, stating they were a credit to their families and the borough, and that the Council knew the borough was in good hands with them as the next generation of public servants.

Questions on Environmental Issues

Several questions from Members and the public focused on environmental concerns. Councillor Belgica Guana asked about the use of bio-bags and the flexibility of bin size rules for recycling. Councillor Shantu Ferdous raised concerns about overflowing litter bins on busy high streets and requested larger capacity bins and more consistent collections. Councillor Areeq Chowdhury questioned the issuing of fines for pensioners feeding birds in parks, arguing it was disproportionate during a cost of living crisis. Councillor Danny Keeling asked about the proportion of waste reused or recycled and the impact of Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) schemes on fly-tipping. Councillor Nate Higgins questioned the cost-effectiveness and impact on the circular economy of charging for bulky waste collection, and also raised concerns about the treatment of striking waste service workers.

In response to questions about recycling and waste management, Councillor James Asser, Statutory Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainable Transport, stated that a weekly recycling collection service was intended to commence in autumn 2023, which should help address capacity issues. He also noted that Newham's recycling rate had increased by 5% in the past four years. Regarding bin sizes, he mentioned that while dual bins had been explored previously without success, the Council would continue to review options. On the issue of bird feeding fines, Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime, explained that fines were issued under 'littering' legislation due to the nuisance caused by vermin, and that the Council was committed to a fair and proportionate enforcement approach, particularly for older and vulnerable residents. He also stated he would investigate claims that enforcement officers were paid by commission. Councillor Asser confirmed that LTN schemes had shown a measurable reduction in fly-tipping. He also addressed concerns about bulky waste collection charges, citing a study suggesting no statistically significant link between charging and increased fly-tipping, and highlighted existing free disposal options. Regarding the treatment of striking workers, he stated that an Industrial Action Agreement would be put in place, including designated toilet facilities.

Other Business

The Council also received presentations from Dr Ann Scott of Keep Britain Tidy and Nick Tilley, Honorary Professor at University College London, as part of the Newham Partners Update. Petitions were presented regarding the 'Respect and Protect Queen's Market' and the resurfacing of Tudor Road. The Council also agreed to suspend Rule 11 of Part 4.1 of the Council's Constitution to extend the meeting beyond 9.00 pm to allow for remaining business. Councillor Anthony McAlmont, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, provided an update on the committee's work programme, highlighting the upcoming Budget Commission and the need for permanent resolution of staffing issues affecting their work. Councillor Danny Keeling made a speech in his individual capacity.

The meeting also included announcements from the Chair, Councillor Rohima Rahman, who conveyed her gratitude for support during a difficult period and led a minute's silence for victims of Storm Daniel in Libya and the earthquake in Morocco. Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE welcomed the new Chief Executive, Abi Gbago, and updated the Council on the review of the Council Constitution, with a report to be considered in October. She also spoke about the importance of a clean borough in the context of the climate emergency and the forthcoming Climate Emergency Just Transition Annual Report. Abi Gbago, in her first announcements as Chief Executive, expressed her honour in joining the meeting and her appreciation for the warm welcome and the commitment of the staff.