Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor writes to Canals & River Trust about proposal to remove litter bins in Watford

The Canals & River Trust have informed a number of councils across the country that they will removing litter bins from Britain’s waterways due to increasing costs. They will instead be implementing a “take it home” policy.

The Liberal Democrat Mayor of Watford believes that this policy is short-sighted and will lead to more litter not only near waterways but spilling out into nearby green spaces. This view is shared by Watford Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services Cllr Tim Williams, who is also a signatory to the letter. They have invited the Canals & River Trust to a meeting to discuss the plans to remove the bins.

Commenting on the proposals, Elected Mayor Peter Taylor said:

“This decision is a recipe for disaster for our precious local waterways. I know from dealing with litter and fly-tipping across Watford that we cannot just rely on people to take their litter home. Without these bins we could end up with a lot more litter by the canal.

“I understand the financial pressure the Canals and Rivers Trust are under but this is the wrong solution. The good work they do across the country will be undermined by piles of litter and fly-tipping. I hope they change their mind.”

Councillor Tim Williams, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, stated

“The Grand Union Canal goes through a beautiful stretch of Watford for just over two miles, and is well used by many residents for leisure activities like walking, jogging and cycling.

“This step by the Canal & River Trust to remove the already well used bins is a major step backwards in regards to litter management in the area, and we fear the accumulation of litter that will occur and the detrimental effect it will have on the natural beauty of the area, and upon wildlife.”

You can read the full letter here.