We have recently begun taking regular water samples from the Beverley Brook at Barnes Green to monitor levels of E.coli, an indicator of water quality and potential pollution. So far, three samples have been collected, and all have shown very high readings. To put this in perspective, the Environment Agency’s guideline for safe bathing water is fewer than 500 E.coli CFU (colony forming units) per millilitre. Our local results have been coming in at up to 2,500 per millilitre – five times higher than what is considered safe. 

The situation has been made worse by a recent pollution event further upstream in Wimbledon. The Environment Agency is still investigating the cause, but one test taken during the incident recorded a shocking 68,000 E.coli per millilitre. This is an exceptionally high and dangerous level, highlighting the urgent need to monitor and protect our waterways. 

If you are interested in joining our community testing team and helping us track the health of Beverley Brook, please contact Shomari. Together, we can raise awareness and work towards a cleaner, safer Beverley Brook.