Residents of the Lissenden Gardens estate in Camden, north London, have successfully campaigned for the repair of a persistent water leak by listing it as a 'waterfall' on Google Maps. The leak, which had been dripping from a roof onto bins for over six months, was finally fixed by Camden Council shortly after its humorous designation as a local landmark.
Ilona Papava, a 29-year-old resident, grew frustrated with the lack of action despite reports from neighbours. She decided to list the leak on Google Maps as a historical landmark, joking with her partner that it resembled a waterfall. The listing accumulated several five-star reviews from amused locals, with one describing it as 'the Great Urban Waterfall' and another comparing it to Niagara Falls.
Papava said: 'I was just bored and annoyed. It had been dripping for at least half a year. Water was constantly dripping into a neighbour's house. I saw it every day when I went to walk my dogs at Hampstead Heath. We all had a laugh writing the reviews and I am very happy it has finally been resolved.'
Camden Council confirmed the leak, identified in pipework from an overflowing water tank, has been fixed. A spokesperson apologised to residents, stating: 'We apologise to residents for the issues they have been experiencing. We have now fixed this issue and stopped the leak.'
