Why was sewer water pumped into a stream in Cerne Abbas?

Wessex Water pumped sewer water into a stream to remove rainwater and groundwater, protecting properties from flooding during exceptionally high groundwater levels.

What are residents' concerns about the drainage in Cerne Abbas?

Residents are concerned that the area's drainage infrastructure is unfit for purpose, citing issues like sewage backup and the increasing strain from new housing developments.

Is pumping sewer water into streams environmentally harmful?

Wessex Water states that regular sampling is conducted to ensure the discharged water, primarily groundwater overwhelming the system, does not cause environmental impact.

Home / Environment / Sewage Flows Into Dorset Stream: Residents Outraged

Sewage Flows Into Dorset Stream: Residents Outraged

3 Feb

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Summary

Sewer water pumped into stream due to high groundwater levels.
Residents fear drainage infrastructure is unfit for purpose.
New housing developments exacerbate existing drainage issues.

Sewage Flows Into Dorset Stream: Residents Outraged

Residents in the village of Cerne Abbas, Dorset, have expressed strong concerns regarding the pumping of sewer water into a local stream that feeds the River Cerne. Wessex Water confirmed the practice, explaining it involves removing rainwater and groundwater from sewers to protect properties from flooding during periods of exceptionally high groundwater levels, a measure permitted by the Environment Agency.

This situation has led locals to question the adequacy of the area's drainage infrastructure, with some believing it is no longer fit for purpose. Concerns are amplified by the prospect of new housing developments, which are expected to further strain the existing systems. Parish councillors have noted recurring issues, including sewage backup into streets and homes, and are highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

Wessex Water maintains that regular sampling ensures the discharged water does not cause environmental harm and that this intervention prevents restrictions on customers' toilet use. Despite these assurances, the community remains worried about the long-term implications of such discharges on local watercourses and the environment.