31st August 2007

A group of street champions in Bordesley Green recently came together to improve their local environment, and raise awareness of pollution in the Wash Brook.  The Street Champion co-ordinator and local resident Margaret Bannon, together with CSV Environment, organised a series of events including planting, litter picking and hanging basket making, with a focus around the brook. 

Severn Trent Water and the Environment Agency were also on hand to give information on the reasons for pollution and advice on how to improve the situation.  "It is really important for people to understand that pollution is being caused by homes in close proximity to the brook.  At some properties foul sewer pipes have been connected to surface water pipes, resulting in washing machine residue and raw sewerage ending in the brook" Geoff Lathe, Severn Trent Water.

The Street Champion scheme is a community led project which supports residents who are concerned about their environment and want to make improvements.  Now in its third year, the project is launching its next phase, called Street Champion Co-ordinators.  This will give local people even more say on their environment helping them to make a difference.  The project is supported jointly by Birmingham City Council, CSV Environment, Birmingham Association of Neighbourhood Forums and Groundwork Birmingham & Solihull. 

Please contact Joanne Liddiard at CSV Environment on 0121 328 8801, or joanne@csvenvironment.org.uk.