We’re taking targeted action to clean up our streets

We’re taking targeted action to clean up our streets We're stepping up our efforts to keep Newham's streets clean, welcoming and free from fly-tipping. 

Earlier this year, we announced a series of Illegal Dumping Action Days to tackle fly-tipping hotspots across the borough. Using local data, we identified areas where targeted action could make the biggest difference and then asked residents to choose which locations should be prioritised. 

This week, teams were out on St George's Road, carrying out 39 fly-tipping investigations, issuing three fixed penalty notices and identifying several further cases for follow-up. Officers also spoke directly with residents, shared information about waste collection services, installed new deterrent signage and explored opportunities for local environmental improvements, including a community mural. 

The Action Days are just one part of a wider programme to improve the cleanliness of our neighbourhoods. This month also saw the launch of a new deep-cleaning programme for some of Newham's busiest high streets, beginning on Green Street. Working overnight to minimise disruption, specialist cleaning teams tackled ingrained dirt, chewing gum, graffiti and paan staining, while also cleaning bins and street furniture. 

Following Green Street, the programme will continue at East Ham High Street North and South, Plashet High Street, Plashet Grove and parts of Romford Road. 

Further Action Days will continue across the selected hotspots in the coming months, so if you see our teams out and about, stop and say hello. Keeping Newham clean is a shared effort, and everyone has a part to play. 

Read about how to report fly-tipping and illegal dumping >

Help make Newham a safer place for women and girls

Newham Council has developed a draft Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategic Overview that sets out our priorities over the next two years.

We want every woman and girl to feel safe in our borough. We don’t want anyone to have to put off plans, divert routes or avoid visiting community spaces because they’re fearful, worried or uncertain. We want Newham to be a place everyone can call home – and home should always be a safe space. 

We now want you to let us know what you think before we progress any further. We are committed to ensuring our ambitions reflect the needs and experiences of our communities. Any feedback you share will help shape the final document. The survey will only take a few minutes to complete. We value all comments and suggestions.

Read our draft plans and complete the survey >

Tips to protect you and your family while abroad

With most of Newham’s schools breaking up for the summer holidays tomorrow, some of you may be preparing for a trip abroad. 

Taking simple precautions can help you to stay healthy and ensure you enjoy your trip, 

without any problems.

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date and speak to your GP or pharmacist about any additional vaccines or preventative medicines you may need. 

While away, use insect repellent, wash your hands regularly and drink bottled or treated water where appropriate. If you feel unwell after returning to the UK, especially with a fever, rash or ongoing diarrhoea, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.

Find out more about travelling safely >

Choose safer places to swim this summer

With the recent high temperatures and Newham’s schools breaking up for the summer holidays tomorrow, we are encouraging you and your family to stay safe around rivers, docks and open water. We want you all to be aware of our top tips, including:

• Do not enter the water to retrieve a ball or other objects
• If you fall into water unexpectedly, float on your back, stay calm and call for help
• If someone gets into difficulty, call 999 and do not enter the water yourself

You and your loved ones can choose safer places to swim, including supervised swimming pools at our three leisure centres.

Find more information about our safe swimming spaces >

Join our Summer Reading Challenge launch party

This summer, children up to the age of 11 can ‘Read to the Beat’ at all Newham Libraries. Sign up, discover great books, collect rewards and enjoy fun activities throughout the holidays. 

Forest Gate Library is holding its Summer Reading Challenge launch event on Saturday 18 July 2026 with a range of fun-filled free activities also on offer. If you go along, you can expect a live operatic performance, arts and crafts, face painting and plenty more. 

There’s no need to sign up, simply pop to the library any time between 12-2pm on Saturday. 

Find out more about how the Summer Reading Challenge works >

Find out about other upcoming events at Newham's libraries >

Enjoy music and performance this summer in Queen's Square

From July to September, Queen’s Square will host outdoor dining set against a backdrop of music and performance, funded by the Mayor of London’s Summer Streets Fund.

17 July - Prez & Friends have teamed up with us to bring Nikhil, Kirath and DJ K1R4N to the Square

18 July - Blossom Group will be bringing us a special evening featuring the Mohammed Rafi Tribute Band

Read all about the Summer evenings in Queen’s Square events >

Team England Open Weekend comes to Newham

Join Better as they celebrate their partnership with Team England’s Commonwealth Games squad across Atherton, East Ham and Newham Leisure Centres.

Free activities for members and non-members include:

• Additional fitness classes to try something new 
• Gym access to explore our facilities 
• Free swimming for Under 16s and Over 60s with a Newham Residents Card  
• Activities for all ages and abilities throughout the weekend

Explore what activities are on offer during Team England Open Weekend > 

Have your say and help create a safer Forest Gate South

Our Community Safety Team is keen to hear your experiences, concerns and thoughts about sex work and associated anti-social behaviour on Romford Road and the surrounding side roads. 

Your feedback will help improve our understanding of the issues affecting the local community in Forest Gate South. In turn, we will be able to work more effectively with partner agencies, including the police, to ensure the community you live in is as safe as possible. 

Have your say on creating a safer Forest Gate South >

Little Ilford residents: shape your neighbourhood’s future

Little Ilford is set to receive up to £20 million over the next 10 years through Pride in Place government funding, and residents will help guide how that money is spent. 

We’re also looking for local people to join the new Neighbourhood Board - or apply to become Chair and help lead. No previous Board experience or formal qualifications are needed. We’re looking for local residents who are passionate about local change for Little Ilford.

Find out more and apply >