The recent sewage upgrade project by Thames Water, a water company, has sparked mixed reactions, with a Surrey campaigner expressing both hope and frustration. Simon Collins, a trustee of River Mole River Watch, highlights the long-standing issues with the Burstow sewage treatment works, which he believes should have been addressed decades ago. The project, costing £26.4 million, aims to address historical problems and improve the quality of effluent discharged into the River Mole.
However, Collins remains skeptical, citing ongoing pollution concerns. He notes that the Burstow stream, located near the treatment works, has been one of the most polluted in the area, suffering from untreated sewage discharge. Collins attributes this to a lack of investment, with over 1,200 hours of untreated sewage released annually since 2019. Despite Thames Water's claims of improved capacity and reliability, Collins's tests reveal that effluent quality remains unchanged.
The campaigner acknowledges recent improvements but calls for faster action. He criticizes the slow pace of upgrades, emphasizing the impact on wildlife and the environment. Thames Water's response includes a £6 billion investment in sewage network upgrades over five years, attributing pollution to agricultural runoff and road runoff. However, Collins argues that the company's efforts are delayed and insufficient, highlighting the need for immediate and comprehensive action.
The situation has led to significant scrutiny, with Thames Water facing a substantial fine for sewage spill breaches and shareholder payouts. The government's objection to a proposed rescue deal further suggests potential nationalization. Collins's concerns echo a broader sentiment of public frustration with water company failures, emphasizing the urgent need for effective and timely solutions to protect our rivers and ecosystems.
