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From the frontline – waterways supervisor Chris Waite
Not many housing jobs are done from a kayak. Chris Waite talks about being a waterways supervisor for Peabody
Tell us about your job.
I am part of the environmental services team based in Thamesmead, south-east London. Thamesmead has five lakes, 7.5km of canals and a mile-long water lock section that need looking after. Our team can often be seen in waders, boats and kayaks as we clean and maintain the water systems. We also look after canal banks and walkways, which includes grass and tree maintenance.
How did you get into housing?
I got into housing in 1991, when I joined Thamesmead as an inspector on the estate security team. I looked after the perimeter of Belmarsh Prison, the housing stock and the old Ministry of Justice grounds. In 2000,s I became a supervisor on the cleaning team, and then a neighbourhood warden in 2006. It wasn’t until 2018 that I took on my current position.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part is being surrounded by the wildlife and working outside. I’m an outdoors person anyway and have been a keen canoeist and kayaker for 15 years, so it feels like I get paid for my hobby.
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What’s the worst part?
The worst part of my job is the rain, as it rules what we do. It’s no fun sitting in a boat and getting soaked because there isn’t a bridge nearby to take shelter under.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
To time-travel. I’m really into history and I’d love to go back in time to see what it was like.
What would you change about the housing sector?
I would like to see more assistance for ex-forces personnel. I am from an Army background and have friends who have left the forces and found it hard trying to get on the property ladder.
If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?
I would make the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the Air Ambulance Service integral parts of our emergency services.
What’s the most private thing you’d be willing to admit to your colleagues?
I’m scared of spiders. Some of the tunnels we clean are full of them, so I don’t hang about too long inside if I can help it.
