Havering Council is set to lobby the government for the introduction of Zane's Law, a campaign for clearer and stronger legal powers to protect communities from toxic, contaminated land. The council will be lobbying all of their local MPs to back the campaign.
The decision was made during a recent Cabinet meeting, where Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of the Council, presented the report. The Cabinet expressed its support for achieving the principles of Zane’s Law.
The law is named after Zane, a seven-year-old boy whose death highlighted the need for improved environmental protections. Zane's father, Kai, addressed the chamber, reminding everyone that the death of a child should never be political
and that you are what you do, not what you say.
He described Zane's Law, also known as the Clean Land Human Rights Act, as being about clean, healthy and sustainable environments
and simply calling for homes to be a safe place for everyone.
Ruth, who also spoke at the meeting, emphasized the importance of environmental justice, stating that children in areas like Raynham are not breathing the same air as children with more privileged environments.
She expressed relief that Havering Council has designated land on Arnold's Field as contaminated and is committed to backing Zane's Law.
Councillor Keith expressed the council's full support, noting Havering's specific role due to gravel extraction areas being particularly liable for the problems...when they're filled incorrectly and not regulated properly.
He highlighted the importance of a national public register and the need for resources to conduct surveys and monitor health statistics related to contaminated land. Councillor Keith stated that the legislation needs to include the correct resources for local authorities to conduct surveys and monitor health statistics related to contaminated land.
Councillor Martin offered his condolences to Zane's father and family, adding that Zane will now have a voice for a lifetime. He also noted that the report puts the onus on responsibility for councils to take accountability of what should be in place regarding the various inspections and the various strategies.
Councillor Morgon assured Kai that Havering Council is ready to support the campaign in any way possible, emphasising the vital importance of the law for the health, safety, and well-being of all residents. The council will be lobbying local MPs to back the campaign.