The UK government and water regulator Ofwat have violated the law by permitting untreated sewage discharges outside of “exceptional circumstances,” according to an investigation by the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP).
Combined sewer overflows (CSOs), which are designed to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall, should only be used in rare situations. However, the OEP found that Defra, Ofwat, and the Environment Agency failed to properly enforce regulations on CSO use.
The findings come as Thames Water seeks approval for a £3 billion loan to avoid a cash crisis, and Ofwat prepares to announce decisions on water bill increases. Environmental groups argue that the ongoing pollution of rivers and seas could have been prevented with proper regulation.
The OEP has issued notices to the relevant bodies, demanding action within two months or face legal action. The watchdog’s Chief Regulatory Officer, Helen Venn, stressed that CSOs should only be used in extreme conditions, such as heavy rain, unless the costs of addressing the issue outweigh the benefits.
In response, Ofwat said it is actively addressing the issue, while Labour accused the government of failing to control sewage pollution. The Environment Agency also stated it is making progress on updating its regulatory framework for storm overflows.
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