Tower Hamlets Council to explore installing drinking water fountains in Mile End Park following petition
A petition calling for more drinking water fountains in Tower Hamlets parks has been presented to the council, highlighting concerns over hydration and plastic waste. The council has confirmed that initial feasibility work has already identified the provision of drinking water facilities in Mile End Park as a potential improvement.
A petition was presented to the Tower Hamlets Council meeting on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, urging the installation of free, accessible drinking water dispensers in Mile End Park, specifically near the football pitches. The petition, submitted by Hannah Ismail, stated that Mile End Park is a vital community space used by children, families, football clubs, and participants of the Saturday park run.
Currently, there is no drinking water available in the park, forcing visitors to purchase bottled water, which is costly and contributes to plastic waste. Ismail highlighted that the lack of accessible water fountains means that many families resort to buying bottled water, especially during hot weather, and that the limited number of bins in the park increases the likelihood of plastic bottles ending up as litter on the streets. Councillor Rujikano inquired about the current availability of drinking water facilities and the inconvenience caused by their absence. Ismail explained that visitors would have to go to shops to buy water or travel to the leisure centre, which is often busy and inconvenient.
The petition also suggested that providing free drinking water would encourage healthier choices, with people more likely to opt for water over sugary drinks, thereby supporting the council's health and well-being objectives. Councillor Bela Lutin asked how the proposed water dispenser would contribute to health, well-being, and environmental objectives. Ismail reiterated that drinking water is essential for health and well-being, and that refill points would reduce plastic bottle waste.
Councillor Amor Mehdi, ward councillor for Mile End, expressed appreciation for the petition and sought clarification on how the facility would be utilised. Ismail responded that it would benefit everyone using the park, from young people and families to older residents and even animals. Councillor Rahmadur Khan questioned the safety and hygiene of the water dispensers, to which Ismail responded that it is the council's responsibility to ensure safety and hygiene.
Councillor Shinali expressed support for the initiative, noting that she also participates in the Saturday park run and observes the lack of refill points.
In response, Councillor Minara Khatun, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, welcomed the petition and acknowledged the benefits of free drinking water. She stated that officers had already identified the provision of drinking water facilities in Mile End Park as a potential improvement and had undertaken initial feasibility work. A location adjacent to the football pitches has been identified as a potential site for the dispenser.
Further technical assessments are currently being undertaken, including investigations into water supply and pressure requirements, to determine the most suitable and cost-effective solution. Subject to the outcome of these assessments and necessary approvals, the Council will seek to progress installation at the earliest opportunity, aligning with the petition's objectives.
Read the full public reports pack for the council meeting here: Public reports pack 07th-Oct-2026 19.00 Council
