В Бракнелле прошли три общественных мероприятия по предотвращению загрязнения водоемов нефтью

Oil pollution incidents affecting Bracknell’s lakes and ponds prompted Thames Water to hold three community events this summer. The free drop-in sessions took place at Jocks Lane on July 28, South Hill Park on August 6 and Mill Pond on August 18. Each event ran from 10am to 2pm. Residents were invited to speak to Thames Water teams about preventing pollution, protecting wildlife and keeping local lakes, ponds and streams healthy. Staff explained how pollution enters local waterways and shared simple steps people can take to prevent environmental harm. Visitors could also ask questions about surface water drainage and the effects of pollution on the environment. The events followed several incidents in Bracknell involving oil entering surface water drainage systems, including gutters and drains, before reaching local ponds and lakes. At Mill Pond, an intentional oil dump into a nearby surface water drain polluted the water and affected local swans. More recent incidents at South Hill Park saw oil enter North Lake and South Lake. Surface water drains are different from the wastewater network. They are designed to carry rainwater and often discharge directly into rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. As a result, oil, paint and chemicals can quickly reach the natural environment if they are disposed of incorrectly. Robert Walker, Network Engineer for Home Counties at Thames Water said: "Local lakes, ponds and streams are important community and environmental ecosystems, and we know how much residents value them." He said: "Many pollution incidents affecting surface water drains are caused by substances such as oil being disposed of incorrectly. Because these drains often flow directly into local waterways, the impact on wildlife and the environment can be significant." People attending the events were shown how surface water drainage systems work and how pollution can affect wildlife and local waterways. They were also given advice on disposing of waste oils and other materials responsibly. Information was provided on how to spot and report pollution incidents. Mr Walker said: "These events are an opportunity to have conversations with the local community; share information about pollution prevention and explain the role everyone can play in helping to protect Bracknell's waterways for future generations." Thames Water also worked with local stakeholders and community groups to raise awareness of pollution prevention and encourage residents to get involved. The events were designed as family-friendly community days, with activities for children and adults. Thames Water teams were available throughout each event to answer questions, share practical advice and make environmental information accessible to all ages. The company said residents had an important role in preventing pollution. Correctly disposing of oil, paint, chemicals and other waste could help protect local waterways and reduce the risk of harm to wildlife. The sessions also aimed to improve understanding of how drainage systems operate and why substances put into gutters or drains can reach nearby water quickly.