Home / Environment / People Power Cuts Sewage Spills Dramatically
People Power Cuts Sewage Spills Dramatically
25 May
Summary
- A Cark water overflow site discharged sewage for 4,775 hours in 2024.
- A £1.5m water treatment works cut discharges to 308 hours in 2025.
- Campaigners credit "bad publicity" for the significant improvements.
In Cark, Cumbria, a significant reduction in sewage spills has been achieved following sustained local campaigning. The storm overflow at Cark in Cartmel, which was United Utilities' worst performing site in 2024, discharged sewage into the River Eea for an alarming 4,775 hours. This figure has since plummeted to 308 hours in 2025.
The dramatic improvement is attributed to the installation of a £1.5m water treatment works. Campaigners, including Rhona Barton, stated that persistent pressure and "bad publicity" were instrumental in securing the funding for this essential upgrade. Ms. Barton, a resident for over 30 years, highlighted that sewage had been a long-standing issue in the village.
United Utilities acknowledged working with local stakeholders and noted the new mini wastewater treatment works can treat double the amount of water per second compared to the previous setup. A spokesperson confirmed the site now biologically treats wastewater to high standards before its safe return to the environment, addressing the unusually high water table that contributed to system overflows.
