Wastewater Discharge Sparks Public Consultation

A seven-week consultation is underway concerning a permanent treated wastewater discharge into the sea. South West Water has applied to the Environment Agency to modify its environmental permits, seeking to permanently utilize a new outfall situated about 300m south of Straight Point in Exmouth, Devon.

This new outfall is designed to discharge treated wastewater. Additionally, under conditions of heavy rainfall, it may also disperse settled storm sewage. The Environment Agency had previously granted conditional temporary permission for its operation to mitigate pollution risks to Exmouth Beach and the Exe Estuary.

To continue using the outfall permanently, South West Water must secure revised environmental permits. The agency is currently evaluating whether the company's proposals meet stringent environmental standards and EA policy, ensuring protection for people, wildlife, and designated sites. Public comments on these permit variations are being accepted via the EA's website.