This month I wanted to begin by talking about an issue I know many residents are concerned about - water pollution - particularly the River Roding and the lakes and ponds in Wanstead Park.
Last month, we saw an unacceptable increase in discharges from the Royston Gardens outfall into the Roding.
Residents reported a clear and visible deterioration in water quality, and people were advised not to enter the water.
Alongside Cllr Jo Blackman, I contacted Thames Water and the Environment Agency to raise these concerns and seek clarification on the action being taken.
Following these representations, I was pleased to secure a meeting with the Environment Agency's area director, together with Cllr Blackman, to discuss what further steps are being taken to tackle this issue.
I was also pleased to join the Epping Forest Heritage Trust for its Big Walk last weekend, which passes through Wanstead Flats and celebrates the area's irreplaceable biodiversity.
I joined them following my election in 2024, and it is always a powerful reminder of the natural world on our doorsteps.
This follows my recent engagement with Epping Forest regarding safety measures during the summer heatwaves and highlights the importance of protecting and preserving our local green spaces.
At the end of August, I held a pop-up surgery at supermarkets in Leytonstone, the first in a series aimed at reaching residents who may not otherwise get in touch.
It was a wonderful opportunity to stop and speak with people outside the stores, and I heard from constituents about a range of issues, including pollution, housing repairs and concerns about Thames Water.
My next pop-up surgery will be held in South Woodford on September 18, and I look forward to meeting more residents and hearing about the issues that matter most to them.
Finally, in my role as Minister for Veterans and People, I have been preparing for Britain’s first-ever National Cadets Week, taking place from October 5 to 11.
As someone who began my own journey through the Cadets, I know how life-changing the experience can be.
It gave me opportunities I would never otherwise have had, from learning to fly before I could drive to taking part in an exchange visit to Hong Kong based on my own efforts, rather than my parents' ability to pay.
While most cadets do not go on to serve in the Armed Forces, the skills and experiences they gain help prepare them for whatever path they choose in life.
We are fortunate to have several excellent cadet units in our area, including 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron Air Training Corps.
I am proud to be playing a national role in championing National Cadets Week and encourage any young person looking for new challenges, skills and opportunities to consider getting involved.
- Calvin Bailey is Labour MP for Leyton and Wanstead.
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