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Water companies in the UK have been treated leniently for sewage spills, breaking the law, according to the government and regulators. The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) conducted an investigation and found that the authorities allowed sewage spills in circumstances where they should not have. The government and Environment Agency responded to the OEP’s findings by stating that they were “considering the allegations” and could face legal action if they failed to act. Ofwat, the regulator, has now taken steps to address the situation.
The number of sewage spills in the UK doubled in 2023, leading to public anger. Wildlife charity WildFish brought the issue to the OEP’s attention, arguing that the law stipulated that sewage could be released only in exceptional circumstances, such as very heavy rain. Chemicals in untreated sewage are potentially lethal to pets and harmful to aquatic life, while a lack of rainfall can exacerbate damage to the environment. The government and the Environment Agency are meanwhile consulting on potential changes to the way sewage releases are managed.
Campaigners welcomed the OEP’s findings, though expressed frustration that it had taken so long for the authorities to respond. However, Nick Measham, the CEO of WildFish said the findings were a “delight” and offered the chance to end sewage pollution. If the government and regulators accept the findings in full by March, they will need to change thousands of environmental permits. The investment plans of water companies may also require revision.
If there is any dispute over the findings, the OEP may apply to the High Court for a judicial review
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