Home / Environment / Devon Council Battles Water Firm Over Pollution
Devon Council Battles Water Firm Over Pollution
11 Jun
Summary
- Local council hosts summit due to unmet government water regulation promises.
- South West Water faces lawsuits and admits to illegal spills affecting wildlife.
- The company is scheduled for sentencing on July 30th for pollution offenses.
A local council in Devon has announced plans for its first Water Quality Summit, aiming to bring together various stakeholders to address concerns. This initiative stems from the council feeling "let down by the authorities" regarding previous promises on water regulation. South West Water, which provides services to approximately 1.8 million customers in Devon and Cornwall, is involved in legal proceedings over sewage pollution.
The company has admitted to 18 pollution offenses across Devon and Cornwall, resulting in illegal spills that impacted rivers, beaches, and wildlife habitats. These offenses led to events such as the deaths of thousands of fish in the River Axe. South West Water was previously fined £2.1 million in 2023 for similar pollution incidents.
In response to these ongoing issues, South West Water has stated it recognizes the concerns about water quality and is working proactively with councils. The company expressed anticipation for the opportunity to discuss its multimillion-pound improvement plans at the upcoming water summit. South West Water is scheduled to be sentenced on July 30th for its admitted pollution offenses.
