River Wandle in the news as major diesel spill is branded “environmental disaster”

A major diesel spill has polluted the River Wandle after approximately 4,000 litres of diesel leaked from a bus depot storage tank in Thornton Heath, Croydon. 

The spillage entered through surface water drains and has now spread along the river, impacting wildlife and water quality.

Birds were coated in oil, and have been struggling to clean themselves and survive in the contaminated water.

Bobby Dean MP, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Carshalton and Wallington, and a long-time advocate for the River Wandle, was quick to highlight the incident, branding it an “environmental disaster.” 

He has since been working closely with South East Rivers Trust and has called for immediate action to hold responsible parties accountable.

Throughout, Bobby has continued to engage with the media to raise awareness and keep the public up to date as new information comes to light.

In broadcast media:

Bobby has appeared regularly on ITV London TV and BBC London TV speaking about the damage caused by the spill:

And has given in depth interviews with Radio London (interview starts at 2:24:10) and local radio station Riverside Radio.

In the papers & online

Bobby was featured heavily in articles on the disaster.

The Standard were the first to break the story and covered Bobby’s calls for accountability.

The BBC covered the disaster comprehensively from the moment it unfolded. They emphasised concerns over public safety and focused on the clean up efforts. 

National news outlets reported on the event with it being featured in ITVX, The Independent and Water Magazine

And, local news outlets, My London, South West London Mercury, Sutton Guardian, South West Londoner, City News, and Inside Croydon, delivered detailed accounts of developments.