Improving Water Quality

Thank you for your email of 1 November about the water industry. I apologise for the delay in replying. Defra is currently dealing with high volumes of correspondence.

Environment Agency - Bathing Water Classifications 2022

Gillian recently wrote to the Environment Agency about storm overflows at South Harting wastewater treatment works after reports suggested the performance at the site was extremely poor.

Below is the EA's response:

Below is a response from Ian McAulay, CEO of Southern Water, following Gillian writing to him regarding reports of sewage on the water's surface,

Immediate Investigation

Chichester District Council has shared its disappointment at the news that several water companies may have been releasing illegal amounts of sewage into rivers and watercourses.

Following reports about widespread unpermitted releases of sewage into the environment by water and wastewater companies, Ofwat has today launched an investigation to establish whether companies are complying with their statutory and licence obligations.

Following reports of surface sewage, Gillian joined the Westminster Hall debate on e-petition 582336, relating to the discharge of sewage by water companies.

Southern Water is launching a task force this week to cut storm overflows by 80 per cent by 2030.

This is part of the company’s zero tolerance approach to pollution and is part of wider programme of investment to deliver a step change in water quality in the area.

Following reports of surface sewage, Gillian met with Chichester Harbour Conservancy Director, and Harbour Master, Richard Craven to discuss the areas water quality.

Gillian has received a response to her enquiry from the Environment Agency's Interim Area Director, Nick Gray regarding the recently reported sewerage on the water's surface.

04.11.2021

Dear Gillian,