Summer is here and the great outdoors beckons.

No better time to sign up with the GROWING COMMUNITIES ACTION GROUP of Greener Berwick. The group has now secured some land so now more people with spades and ideas are needed – please contact Jo Hart via info@greenerberwick.org.uk (please mark the email FAO Jo Hart).

Headlines in the local paper recently: £50m to sort the storm water overflow spills! Sounds good but the TWEED ESTUARY POLLUTION ACTION GROUP of Greener Berwick dug deeper and that figure actually represents the planned budget for Northumbria Water (NW) that covers many items, over many years, including leaks in the system etc. No specifics on storm water overflows, so we have asked for another meeting with NW to explain their new plan – watch this space and our website. Meanwhile the group continue to monitor the algae (a proxy for pollution levels) in the estuary for the Environment Agency.

EVERYONE - DO take pictures(with date taken and weather conditions at the time) of brown sludge and any objects floating in the estuary and send to info@greenerberwick.org.uk (FAO Elaine Paterson). They will be forwarded to Northumbria Water and Environment Agency to make them aware.

The WARM HOMES ACTION GROUP of Greener Berwick has made progress agreeing to help Northumberland County Council publicise their energy efficiency grants (up to £10,000 for household incomes under £30,000) that must be applied for by the end of July.

More info

The TRANSPORT AND ACTIVE TRAVEL ACTION GROUP of Greener Berwick have made progress too, gathering info for improvement to cycling safety between the station and the leisure centre (a route many want improved) to help NCC in turn make progress on this. The group also help NCC to try and get it right by notifying gaps/out of date bus stop information.

The ZERO WASTE HUB ACTION GROUP have been visiting repair cafes elsewhere as inspiration for a Berwick repair café, and is hoping to start at Berwick venue in the autumn.

Thanks to all who make such great contributions to Greener Berwick, and as always we welcome more to join any action group, or volunteer at events. Check our website regularly, be in touch, and let us know what you think of our activities and engagement so far – suggestions to improve are always gratefully received.

Website: www.greenerberwick.org.uk

Email: info@greenerberwick.org.uk