Arson Attacks on Thames Road Wetland in Bexley Create Hazard for Road and Rail Users

April 16, 2026

Residents in Barnes Cray, Bexley, are reporting multiple arson attacks at the Thames Road Wetland, where large piles of plant material, essential for habitat management, have been deliberately set alight. These ongoing incidents, according to a resident report, create a potential hazard for both road and rail users in the area.

The Problem Explained

According to a report submitted via FixMyStreet, the Bexley Council-owned Thames Road Wetland has been targeted by arsonists on at least two separate occasions in recent weeks. A large pile of rotting reed was reportedly torched between 20th and 23rd March. Another pile at this location was burnt down between 31st March and 9th April. During this second period, a large heap of Buddleia branches and other plant material was also burnt to the ground near the railway embankment. The report highlights that these piles are a necessary consequence of habitat management work to maintain wildlife diversity.

Local Impact and Context

Chris Rose, the site manager, states that the site is only partially fenced, and the deliberate burning of these materials could create a significant hazard for those using nearby roads and the railway. The report emphasises that volunteers who manage the Thames Road Wetland never have fires, suggesting that any observed fires are acts of arson. Mr Rose has also posted notices to this effect on social media.

Council Response and Status

The London Borough of Bexley has acknowledged the report, with its status currently listed as 'Investigating' on the FixMyStreet platform. The site manager has requested that Bexley Council staff passing the Thames Road Waste and Recycling depot be alerted to report any fires seen at the wetland to the police and fire brigade.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION:

This report is based on data from FixMyStreet.

Document: Arson attacks on Thames Road Wetland on at least 2 separate occasions in last few weeks.., 15th April

Source Link: https://www.fixmystreet.com/report/9300949

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