London Mayor plans new network of drinking water fountains

Plans are being drawn up for new drinking water fountains in London to cut the number of plastic bottles used.

The draft London Plan, which is subject to public consultation, suggests new sites for parks and town centres.

The report says that free fountains that can refill bottles and be used for drinking should be provided in appropriate locations.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan also wants businesses to provide their tap water to Londoners.

A spokesperson for Sadiq Khan said: "The Mayor wants to see a reduction in the amount of single-use plastic bottles and cups across the capital."

They said he had asked City Hall officers to examine the feasibility of a pilot community water refill scheme, or other possible interventions adding that he "supports boroughs in identifying suitable locations for water fountains and bottle-refill stations during the planning process".

A recent poll by Keep Britain Tidy found only 7% said they drank from water fountains or public taps - while 55% were concerned about the cleanliness of public water taps, fountains and dispensers.