South West Water faces court sentencing for years of pollution
The water company admitted 18 charges of polluting Devon and Cornwall
South West Water's legal troubles continue as the firm awaits sentencing this afternoon (30th July) after admitting to polluting Devon and Cornwall over six years.
The water company has pleaded guilty to 18 charges, covering illegal sewage discharges and neglecting remedial actions at a pumping station, according to the Environment Agency's prosecution at Plymouth Magistrates Court.
With activities spanning from January 2015 to July 2021, the pollution affected areas including Bodmin, Harlyn, Playing Place, Polperro, and Plymouth.
Pollution affected popular beaches and conservation areas
At Bodmin's sewage works, 336 illegal sewage leaks were noted over seven years, harming the River Camel, a vital habitat for protected species like Atlantic salmon.
From January 2016 to July 2021, Harlyn beach saw 231 incidences of untreated sewage discharged, impacting a spot popular with tourists and those living nearby.
In Plymouth, Hooe Lake Sewage Pumping Station witnessed a significant spill lasting 88 hours between 28th August and 1st September 2020, affecting watersport activities and its natural habitats.
The court will also address spills at Holywell Sewage Pumping Station, with six charges pending further investigation.
Years of investigation lead to guilty pleas
Clarissa Newell, Devon and Cornwall's Environment Agency manager, said there was lengthy investigations leading to these guilty pleas.
“Getting to this point and securing these guilty pleas was only possible thanks to years of thorough investigation and hard work by Environment Agency officers. They are committed to protecting Devon and Cornwall’s greatest assets – the beaches, waters, and associated habitats,” Newell said.
“Polluters must pay, and the Environment Agency continues to do everything in its power to ensure that they do,” she added.
South West Water previously faced legal action in 2023 for pollution between July 2016 and August 2020 and was fined £2.15 million.