Improving Water Quality

Gillian is working closely with fellow MPs, agencies and organisations to improve coastal water quality. Keep up to date with her work below.

For the latest water quality readings from the Chichester Harbour Conservancy - CLICK HERE

For live release data via Southern Water's BeachBouy Scheme - CLICK HERE

Safe to swim? Check for advisories before you swim - CLICK HERE

Chichester Harbour - (Source, Chichester Harbour Conservancy)

There are 3 wastewater treatment plants that discharge directly into the Harbour at Apuldram, Bosham and Thornham. These were upgraded in April 2008 so all treated sewage now receives Ultraviolet (except Thornham) and bacteriological treatment, and some of the nutrients are removed before the effluent is discharged.

In addition, storm discharges from Lavant WWTW can impact the Harbour via the River Lavant, as can Southern Water activity pumping from the surcharged pipes into the River Lavant to take pressure off the wastewater system in upstream villages such as East Dean. Storm discharges from Budds Farm WWTW in Langstone Harbour are also likely to impact to some degree.

Associated with Southern Waters sewage infrastructure, there are several pumping stations and combined sewage overflows, that can also discharge during storm conditions.

What are storm overflows? - (Source, Southern Water)

During heavy rain, local sewer networks can struggle to cope with the amount of water entering pipes and storage tanks.

When they fill up, we use pressure relief valves built into the network – known as storm overflows – to stop homes and businesses from flooding. These overflows release excess water through outfalls into rivers and the sea. Storm overflows are part of the design of the sewers and are regulated by the Environment Agency. They're used in areas where the sewers were built to carry both wastewater from homes and businesses, and rainwater from roofs, gardens and roads.

Did you know?
Storm overflow releases typically occur during periods of heavy rainfall and can be around 95% rainwater.

CSO graphic Southern Water

Attachments

Attachment Size
CSO FAQs (Southern Water) 735.96 KB

News

Gillian Discusses Sewage Discharges on Greatest Hits Radio Sussex

Gillian was pleased to speak with Greatest Hits Radio Sussex, on Monday 27th March 2023, to discuss her recent talks with Southern Water and the proposals put forward. 

They've agreed to look into her 3 proposals to curb discharges at Chichester Harbour: 

Ending Sewage Discharges - online panel event

Gillian organised and hosted a panel event to discuss sewage discharges.

Joining her were representatives from Southern Water, Ofwat, Environment Agency, Natural England, RSPB, and Chichester Harbour Conservancy. The event was chaired by Lawrence Abel

Wastewater Online Panel Event - Chichester Observer

It has been wonderful to see how the community has come together to honour Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during this period of national grief. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have supported the proceeding here in West Sussex and in the capital.

Gillian comment on new leader's priorities

When asked by local newspaper The Argus: "What is the most pressing issue that has been raised by your constituents in recent weeks and what steps would you like to see Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss take when they walk into Number 10?"

Gillian responded:

Getting to grips with CSOs - Chichester Observer

Recent downpours after weeks of extremely dry weather led to Combined Sewage Overflows (CSOs) discharges returning to many areas across Sussex. CSOs are when diluted wastewater is released without full treatment into the environment.

Wastewater in Sussex - Chichester Observer

Recent downpours after weeks of extremely dry weather led to Combined Sewage Overflows (CSOs) discharges returning to many areas across Sussex. CSOs are when diluted wastewater is released without full treatment into the environment.

 

Government action against sewage discharges from storm overflows

Government release: DEFRA 22.08.2022

Untreated sewage can be devastating to human health, local biodiversity and our environment which is why we have been clear that water companies must take urgent action to address sewage discharges.