Key information
Request reference number: MGLA180226-4532
Date of response:
Summary of request
Query: is glyphosate weed killer used in playgrounds across London? If so, which boroughs are still using this? Given Hackney has now banned its use in all its public spaces and playgrounds, are you interested in supporting a ban for all councils?
See here: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jan/15/glyphosate-cancer-l…
Response:
The GLA’s responses to your request are as follows:
The GLA is London's strategic government and does not hold information about whether London’s local authorities use glyphosate in the areas, parks or playgrounds that they are responsible for, or have powers to ban their use. You may wish to make a request to the London individual borough councils (https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/london-directory).
GLA Land and Property Limited (GLAP) is responsible for the Thames Barrier Park and Central Park, Greenwich. Both have play areas. GLAP does not use glyphosate weed killer in any areas – including play areas at Thames Barrier Park and Central Park, which have safer surface installed.
The GLA is also responsible for Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square Garden, though neither has a playground. The GLA does not use glyphosate on the areas we manage at Parliament Square Gardens or Trafalgar Square.