The Environment Forum of Enfield Council met on Wednesday 10 January 2024 to discuss a range of environmental issues, including waste management, fly-tipping, cycling infrastructure, and food production. Key decisions included the launch of a refreshed waste and recycling website and ongoing efforts to improve recycling rates.

Fly Tipping, Recycling, and Waste Management

The meeting received an update on the council's recycling performance and efforts to combat fly-tipping. A significant development highlighted was the launch of a refreshed waste and recycling website on January 8th, designed to be a one-stop shop for residents with improved graphics and local photography. Letters have also been sent to local authorities confirming funding for new legislation regarding food waste collections and recycling on flats and estates.

Officers discussed the advantages and disadvantages of co-mingling recyclable materials, noting that boroughs with separate collections generally achieve better results, though logistics in urban areas can be challenging. Enfield Council currently lacks up-to-date waste analysis figures, but the North London Waste Authority is conducting a waste audit, with results expected soon. For items like plastic film or business waste not using recyclable materials, residents are advised to take them to participating supermarkets, though officers acknowledged the time constraints this may impose. The government's producer responsibility legislation and deposit return scheme are expected to address these issues.

Discussions also covered efforts to improve recycling rates by collaborating with neighbouring boroughs that have higher recycling performance. New legislation will mandate private management agents to recycle and collect food waste on estates. Residents are reminded that appointments are necessary for the Barrowell Green recycling centre, though site operatives may be flexible if the centre is not busy. The Communications team will further promote the requirement to book appointments.

Regarding fly-tipping, an update was provided on government action to increase fines for offences. Officers encouraged residents to report issues online to help identify hot-spot areas. It was clarified that leaving black bags in litter bins on Chase Road, Southgate, constitutes incorrect waste presentation and can lead to a notice being served. Providing more litter bins is not always the solution; addressing the root cause is preferred. The council is also working on recovering outstanding fines, with reminder letters being personalised to encourage payment. Councillor Maria Alexandrou requested the total value of outstanding fines for April 2021 to March 2022. The team's efforts in tackling fly-tipping were praised by Councillor Rick Jewel and other members.

Cycling/ Journeys and Places

Richard Eason, Programme Director for Journeys and Places, presented an update on the programme's third element, focusing on engagement and cycling schemes. The Journeys and Places website and the Lets Talk platform were highlighted as key resources for residents.

Members sought clarification on how feedback from public meetings regarding the Southbury Road section of a walking/cycling route would be incorporated, with officers confirming that the feedback had influenced the designs. Concerns were raised about the broader impact on public transport and pedestrian crossings on cycle routes. Officers assured that all aspects are explored to ensure sustainable travel targets are met without detrimentally impacting bus journey times. The need to upgrade older, potentially dangerous cycleways was discussed, with officers explaining that significant investment, in conjunction with Transport for London (TfL), would be required.

Proposals for Bowes East and Edmonton Green are expected soon, following the completion of engagement. Officers expressed optimism about securing funding for paused schemes in the next financial year. Richard Eason will email the presentation slides to members for use at Ward Forums, and will communicate to councillors when projects are no longer paused and have received further funding.

Food Production and Allotments

Marcus Harvey, Head of Parks & Open Spaces, provided an update on food production and allotments. The council has secured a Head of Rural Transformation to explore rural opportunities within the borough.

Regarding food grown on allotments, officers explained that it is primarily for allotment owners, with excess often offered to the community and food banks. Allotments in the borough have a 97% occupancy rate with a significant waiting list. Discussions are underway with groups at the library green and Pymmes Park to explore using small areas for growing herbs and vegetables. There is no intention to decrease the number of allotments, and demand warrants expansion.

The council has submitted an expression of interest to the National Lottery for land-based education programmes to create a school curriculum. Enfield in Bloom also offers small grants to schools for growing initiatives. Plans are in place with the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to annually implement land-based schemes on council estates to re-engage residents and build community. The Chair requested that residents and members be informed about places selling excess food and honey produced on allotments.

The meeting also noted the date of the next meeting as Wednesday, 10th April.