Two sewage incidents on Cornwall's coast prompt safety warnings
The Environment Agency's told swimmers to avoid Polstreath Beach near Mevagissey and said they are also dealing with an incident in St Mawes
Last updated 3rd Aug 2026
Cornwall's coastlines have been hit by two separate sewage incidents.
Sewage has spilled into the harbour area of St Mawes in Cornwall following a burst pipe on Sunday evening.
Environment Agency officers are currently responding to the incident, with sewage being removed by tanker.
South West Water have confirmed work to repair the damaged pipe has now been completed and customers have had their water supply restored.
People are being advised against entering the water and the Environment Agency say signs from the harbour master will provide the latest updates and guidance.
Meanwhile, in a separate warning on Sunday (2 August) The Environment Agency urged people to avoid swimming at Polstreath Beach near Mevagissey after it was reported sewage was flowing into the harbour from a stream.
The authority said in a post on social media that photos showed a cloudy discharge from a surface water drain and officers attended and confirmed the presence of raw sewage through visual and odour assessments, ammonia readings, and water quality monitoring.
It added that an investigation was ongoing with water samples and photographic evidence collected.
South West Water is also investigating the source of the sewage pollution.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "We will continue to monitor the situation, work with South West Water to stop the pollution, and keep the public informed."