Greener Ealing (GEL), the council’s waste, recycling and grounds maintenance contractor, will take over parking enforcement for the borough as the contract comes back under council control to provide a better service and reduced traffic congestion for residents.
The decision to appoint GEL, a London Living Wage employer, was taken by the council’s cabinet last night (Wednesday, 7 December). GEL will be taking over the contract from the current provider Serco. The transfer of services, staff and necessary equipment from Serco to Greener Ealing will take place from 1 April 2024 and is subject to staff consultation.
Greener Ealing is wholly owned by the council and bringing parking services back under council control in this way allows the council to have greater oversight of the quality of service being delivered.
Councillor Deirdre Costigan, cabinet member for climate action, said: “GEL has done a sterling job to date on collecting our refuse and keeping our streets clean so we’re really pleased that they will be taking back control of parking enforcement too. This will deliver value for money for the council, and in turn residents. It will also help to reduce congestion and air pollution, making the roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
“By having parking enforcement and waste collection services managed under one roof we can improve access for refuse removal, speed up roadworks and generally assist to de-clutter the street environment.”
Councillor Costigan added: “Parking is an important service to residents and this new service will be keeping traffic moving, making roads safer, reducing air pollution, ensuring that there are adequate parking spaces on high streets, and that residents can park as near as possible to their homes.”
Kevin O’Leary, GEL’s interim managing director, said: “The GEL Board is delighted that Ealing Council is satisfied with progress on the core environmental services contract and welcomes any opportunities to consider the delivery of additional services for Ealing.”
All cabinet decisions are subject to a call-in period.
