ENVIRONMENT AGENCY MUST LISTEN TO LOCAL PEOPLE - TEATHER

6.02.16pm GMT Fri 6th Oct 2006

Sarah Teather, Norman Baker and Lib Dem campaigners are fighting to clean up the air in Neasden

Sarah Teather, Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East, today spoke at an Environment Agency appeal hearing in Reading to express the concerns of local people over Neasden Goods Yard.

After a long and energetic campaign by Sarah Teather MP and local Liberal Democrats, the newly elected Brent Council are trying to force operators at the yard to clean up their act. But they are unable to take action without the support of the Environment Agency.

One of the worst operators at the site, Alloyde II, have had their licence revoked after the council claimed the company are failing to comply with the Environment Agency's dust control measures. The firm are now fighting to have their license reinstated.

Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East, Sarah Teather, said:

"This is an issue that local people raise with me time and time again. The situation is completely unacceptable. Unscrupulous firms must not be allowed to ruin our local area. Irresponsible working practices have a serious effect on people's quality of life.

"I am glad that the Environment Agency are taking our campaign seriously, and finally seem to be prepared to work with the Council.

"Now the Environment Agency must listen to local people and ensure that all contractors on the site clean up their act. We have put up with dangerous levels of pollution for too long.

"It is extremely frustrating that the Environment Agency decided to hold this hearing in Reading, too far for many Brent residents to travel. I was pleased to represent my constituent's views to the hearing, and to convey the strength of local feeling."