The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 27th June 2023, discussing a range of environmental issues including air quality, park management, and waste collection. Key decisions included recommending the approval of the Wandsworth Air Quality Citizens' Assembly recommendations, the continuation of interim arrangements for Fishponds Playing Fields, and the adoption of a new Tree and Woodland Delivery Framework.

Citizens' Assembly on Air Quality

The Committee received a report and recommendations from the Wandsworth Air Quality Citizens' Assembly, a project established as a manifesto pledge to gather a representative sample of Wandsworth residents to discuss air quality. The Assembly members presented their findings, highlighting concerns about the impact of wood-burning stoves and traffic fumes on health, and the need for improved communication from the Council. They emphasised that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations and suggested various solutions, including better public transport, the provision of bike and buggy hangars, and a public awareness campaign akin to those for tobacco. The Committee heard that the Council would provide a full response, including a new Air Quality Action Plan, at a future meeting. The Executive was recommended to receive the report, note the process for a full response, and note the initial responses to the recommendations.

Fishponds Playing Fields Management

The Committee approved the continuation of interim arrangements for the management and maintenance of Fishponds Playing Fields as a permanent fixture within the Leisure and Culture Contract. A deputation from the Fishponds Forever group highlighted the playing fields' importance as an open space, particularly for children and women, and its role in improving local biodiversity. Councillors expressed their delight that the project had been taken forward, acknowledging the positive collaboration between the community group and the Council. The Executive was recommended to approve the permanent arrangement.

Mega Skips Initiative

The popular Mega Skips initiative, which provides residents with free large skips for waste disposal, was discussed. The Deputy Director of Environment and Community Services reported an 11% reduction in fly-tipping incidents over the past year, attributing this success to the mega skip days. The Committee heard about plans to increase the frequency of these events to twice a month and to explore options for recycling reusable items from the skips, potentially through a partnership similar to the Richmond Furniture Project. The Council also plans to trial waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) banks on estates. The Executive was recommended to note the report, agree to outlined activities, and approve a positive General Fund revenue budget variation of £154,800 for 2023/24.

Tree and Woodland Delivery Framework

The Committee discussed the first Wandsworth Tree and Woodland Delivery Framework, developed with input from tree wardens and Friends of the Parks groups. The framework aims to increase tree cover across the borough, with a phased approach to planting over ten years. While broadly welcomed, some members raised concerns about the pace of planting and the need for robust watering strategies. The Interim Assistant Director of Environment and Community Services (Leisure) committed to further research and discussions with Enable, the organisation responsible for delivering the framework, to address these points. The Executive was recommended to approve the framework.

Springfield Park Adoption

A significant debate took place regarding the adoption of Springfield Park. Councillor Graham, speaking as the Ward Councillor, argued against the Council not adopting the park, citing its scale and the potential for developers to not maintain it to the required standard. He expressed concern that not adopting the park contradicted the Council's commitment to public interest. However, the Assistant Director of Environment & Community Services (Planning and Transport) recommended against adoption, citing that public access was already secured through planning consent and that the financial obligations for long-term maintenance were substantial. The Committee ultimately recommended that the Executive decide not to adopt Springfield Park and to delegate authority for responding to the Trust and discussing the Council's role on a future governance board.

Alternative Weed Removal Trial

To reduce the use of glyphosate, a chemical weed killer with negative health and environmental impacts, the Committee approved a year-long trial of alternative weed removal methods. Three trials will be conducted: a manual/mechanical approach with community involvement, an acetic acid (vinegar) system, and a 50% reduction in glyphosate use. The Assistant Director of Environment and Community Services (Waste) will have delegated authority to amend the roads included in the trial areas. The Executive was recommended to approve these trials.

Wandsworth Corporate Plan Actions and KPIs

The Committee reviewed the Wandsworth Corporate Plan Actions and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the 2023/24 period. Discussions covered the number of Green Homes Grant installations, fly-tipping enforcement, the regulatory service partnership, tree planting targets, engine idling interventions, library visits, and carbon literacy training for staff and Councillors. The Executive was recommended to note the report and approve the refreshed Corporate Plan actions and KPIs.

Replacement of Waste Collection Fleet

An urgent decision regarding the replacement of the Council's ageing waste collection fleet was noted. The Assistant Director of Environment and Community Services (Waste) explained the urgency was due to the rapid deterioration of the current vehicles and upcoming legislative changes. The decision ensures new vehicles will be ready for when the current contract ends in March 2024. The Committee heard that the vehicles would be capable of running on vegetable oil, a more sustainable option being adopted by neighbouring authorities. The report was noted for information.