The ePetition, launched by residents in Bracknell Forest, urges the council to use its full powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to tackle what campaigners describe as illegal commercial pollution.
Allegations include toxic discharges into The Cut, a river running through Bracknell, along with harmful atmospheric emissions and damage to nearby woodland ecosystems.
The petition states: “We demand absolute accountability and statutory law enforcement from our governing authorities to protect Bracknell’s environment.”
Fish being re-introduced to the River Cut after an industrial pollution incident in 2017 (Image: NQ)
Campaigners say commercial run-off has introduced hazardous chemicals into the river, resulting in foaming, harm to aquatic life, and contamination of the local water table.
They warn that the pollution is destroying key habitats for protected wildlife, including birds and swans, and also poses a public health risk due to unregulated industrial fumes.
The petition calls on Bracknell Forest Council and the Environment Agency to use their statutory authority to issue “Stop Notices,” apply maximum financial penalties, and install round-the-clock environmental monitoring and CCTV at industrial sites.
It also demands that polluters fund a fully transparent, independent ecological recovery plan to restore the biodiversity of The Cut and its surrounding woodlands.
The petition concludes: “This petition is a formal call to action for Peter Swallow MP and Councillor Caroline Egglestone to champion this ecological emergency at both local council and parliamentary levels.”
The petition runs from June 20, to December 20, 2026 and is available to sign on the Bracknell Forest Council website here: democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?id=78