Rivers, Lakes and Seas: Water Quality

River Esk in Yorkshire faces sewage discharges from 18 storm overflows with 637 spills recorded in 2023. Urges the Government to ensure proper infrastructure and regulation.

Andrew Cooper acknowledges the importance of waterways for Mid Cheshire's economy and environment. He discusses sewage discharges caused by under-investment in sewerage infrastructure and supports Government efforts to address this issue through legislation. The Environment Agency's budget was cut from £170 million to £76 million, affecting environmental protection efforts.

Addressed water quality issues in South East Cornwall, mentioning sewage dumping impacting tourism and public health, and highlighted local efforts to improve river conditions.

The River Avon in Tewkesbury suffered 6,573 sewage spills in 2023 and the River Severn had over 30,000 hours of sewage release. Local groups have recorded high nitrate and phosphate pollution levels which harm wildlife and are dangerous to people.

Catherine Fookes agreed on the importance of tackling diffuse pollution from agriculture. She highlighted examples like Avara's waste management practices in Herefordshire, but noted that long-term problems remain unsolved.

Criticised Thames Water’s 35% water bill increase and its mismanagement in Wokingham, highlighting sewage spills. Urged the Minister to implement a special administrative regime for Thames Water.

A serious pollution incident involving hydrocarbons occurred in Bown Pond in Fradley, resulting in the death of fish and harm to swans. The Environment Agency needs more resources for investigations and prosecutions.

The rivers in David Chadwick's constituency are heavily polluted. He supports the concerns raised about previous government failures to tackle water pollution and highlights the impact on local communities.

Highlighted the unique biodiversity of chalk streams and the need for special protective status, calling for a recovery plan specific to chalk streams.

The Lugg, a tributary of the Wye, is heavily affected by pollution causing economic damage. Calls for additional measures and proper funding to tackle agricultural pollution. Asked if the previous £35 million plan violated the 'polluter pays' principle and requested support for nature-friendly farming in the Wye catchment.

Summarised efforts to improve water quality, noting collaboration with local communities and farmers while committing to work on River Wye plans.

Helen Maguire highlights the continued worsening of sewage discharge issues despite recent efforts, urging for more ambitious actions by the government to hold water companies accountable.

In Chichester, there were 990 sewage spills in rivers and harbours lasting over 17,000 hours. The hon. Member agrees that the Water (Special Measures) Bill is welcome but could go further on regulation by giving Ofwat more authority.

Asked Catherine Fookes to support his request that the Government reconsider the River Wye action plan and preserve the £35 million funding for river restoration.

Jim Shannon provides a Northern Ireland perspective on river pollution and its sources, mentioning agricultural run-off as one of the main contributors. He inquires about discussions with farmers' unions regarding reducing fertiliser use.

Commended the debate's importance regarding water quality and praised the Government’s Water (Special Measures) Bill for addressing poor performance of water companies.

Described sewage dumping by Severn Trent Water in Shrewsbury, affecting wildlife and residents’ health. Welcomed the Water (Special Measures) Bill for increased accountability of water companies.

Agreed with Catherine Fookes that government action is necessary rather than relying on pressure groups such as Feargal Sharkey's campaign.

Hidden River Cabins in Carlisle offers secluded cabins by the River Lyne, one of few safe spots for swimming. However, 40 sites across the constituency were polluted in 2023 due to inadequate regulation.

Ms Billington raised concerns about sewage dumping by Southern Water near Ramsgate, emphasizing the need for the new independent water commission to introduce local accountability and explore different governance models.

South East Cornwall’s natural environment is priceless, and the government should take action to improve water quality, protect the environment, enhance public health, and secure livelihoods.

Welcomed actions by the Government to penalise water bosses who pollute and called for real action on phosphate stripping at sewage works in her constituency.

Chalk streams are under threat due to chemical pollution, water shortages and sewage dumping by water companies. Emphasises need for a holistic review of regulatory system including chalk streams.

The hon. Member for Keighley and Ilkley highlighted the improvements made under previous Conservative Governments, including the introduction of the Environment Act in 2021 and a plan for water that focused on more investment, stronger regulation, and tougher enforcement. Water companies have not been meeting their environmental obligations for a long time, leading to monitoring implementation. Requests explanation from the Minister on why the water restoration fund is being discontinued.

Robin Swann brought attention to Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland and discussed severe cyanobacteria blooms affecting the lake. He emphasized the need for partnership with farmers and adherence to seasonal farming practices. Asked if the Minister has discussed water quality improvement with Northern Ireland’s DAERA Minister.

Sarah Dyke thanked the hon. Member for securing the debate and expressed concerns about DEFRA's pause on access to grants such as the slurry infrastructure grant, which helps livestock farmers ensure nutrients do not enter watercourses.

The Liberal Democrats champion cleaning up waters, highlighting issues such as sewage dumping in rivers, lakes, and seas, impacting ecology, biodiversity, water quality, and tourism. The impunity for pollution needs addressing.