Home / Environment / South West Water: England's Worst Polluter?
South West Water: England's Worst Polluter?
30 Aug
Summary
- South West Water leads England in sewage spill duration annually.
- Company's bathing sites faced most pollution incidents in 2025.
- Customers endure high water bills with significant recent increases.
New analysis reveals South West Water as the leading environmental offender among English water companies. The company, operating in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset, discharged more sewage than any other in England. It recorded the longest average annual sewage spill duration, totaling 574,323 hours, far exceeding other major water providers.
Furthermore, South West Water's designated bathing sites experienced the highest number of pollution incidents and warnings in 2025, with 666 such occurrences. Despite these environmental shortcomings, the company's approximately 1.8 million customers face some of the highest water bills in England, averaging £726 annually.
Bills have also seen a substantial rise, increasing by 39% since 2024, making them the second highest increase nationwide. This performance has prompted environmental groups to urge the government to implement robust legislation for river and sea restoration. The government has stated its commitment to reforming the water sector.
Friends of the Earth advocates for nationalizing water companies to ensure better environmental stewardship and customer value. Discussions regarding potential government interventions for struggling water utilities like Thames Water are ongoing, with the government prepared for necessary actions.
