Does the pollution in Barnet's waterways make you fume?

If so now is your chance to put forward ideas about how rivers like Silk Stream, which runs through Colindale, and Dollis Brook, running through Finchley, could be maintained and developed.

London's Waterway Partnership has put together a £28million investment programme with the aim of making rivers and reservoirs, like Welsh Harp, cleaner, more attractive places with safer footpaths and easier access.

The aim is to improve London's waterways both environmentally and economically by involving groups, schools and businesses from the community. There is a chance for the most exciting project idea to win a £350 prize.

It is just one part of LEAP (Local Environment Agency Plan), the Environment Agency's project for waterways which is being put into action over the next five years. An essential part of LEAP is consultation and this stage is currently underway so any opinions are welcome.

The partnership would like to hear your views on issues such as:

o what types of businesses should be along canals and rivers in the future

o how derelict sites can be developed or upgraded for business use

o water quality

o if the waterways could be improved for leisure, recreation, school or work routes

o how children and adults can be educated about the waterways and towpath safety

o what bridges and paths are needed to link the waterways with surrounding areas.

To find out more or make suggestions write to Paul Turrell at Groundwork West London, 214 Goldhawk Road, W12 9NX or telephone him on 0181 743 3040.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.