Newham Council to tackle Silvertown dust

Newham Council will send officers with an executive member to Silvertown to investigate persistent dust pollution affecting residents. The move follows concerns raised by Councillor Rob Callender, who described streets around Silvertown and West Silvertown DLR Station as 'caked in dust and debris'.

Councillor Callender, who represents Royal Victoria ward, stated that sediment lies inches thick around the kerbs of traffic islands. He reported that road markings are obscured, street furniture is covered, and recently installed cycle paths and pavements are full of debris. Residents' homes and cars are also affected, and they are breathing in the dust, he said.

Council response to resident concerns

Susan Masters, Newham Council's executive member for adults, health and environment, confirmed the council has received multiple inquiries from residents about the dust. She acknowledged the area hosts industrial sites, including RMS Skip Hire, where dust suppression measures are in operation. Council staff have made site visits to RMS Skip Hire, she reported.

Newham Council deploys a mechanical sweeper on Silvertown Way three times a week, and its street cleaning team cleans traffic islands on Sundays. Councillor Masters explained that increasing street cleaning in Silvertown might necessitate reducing the service elsewhere in the borough.

Councillor Masters has agreed to visit the area with officers to assess the situation and explore potential solutions. This visit aims to address the ongoing issues of dust and debris impacting the Silvertown neighbourhood.