Sadiq Khan launches 10-year plan to clean up London’s rivers
London: London Mayor Sadiq Khan has unveiled an ambitious new mission to revive the capital’s rivers and waterways over the next decade.
The “Clean Rivers and Waterways” plan aims to cut pollution, restore nature, and make blue spaces more accessible for sport and swimming.“I firmly believe access to nature is an issue of social justice,” Khan said.
“Through this ambitious plan we will work with partners to tackle pollution, restore nature and open up new swimming and recreation opportunities, improving access to help Londoners enjoy and reconnect with their waterways.”
The initiative will target 10 key locations from Croydon to Waltham Forest. It plans to create and restore 550 hectares (1,359 acres) of waterway habitat and 80km (50 miles) of rivers.
The project has backing from more than 50 partners including boroughs, community groups and water companies. The Mayor’s office has committed £16m, with a further £1.8bn pledged by partners over the next five years.
“We will clean up London’s rivers in the same way we cleaned up our toxic air, bringing about lasting change as we work to build a greener, fairer city for everyone,” Khan added.
