Save Windermere, a campaign group, accuses the Environment Agency of installing poorly positioned water quality monitors near England's largest lake, Windermere. They claim the monitors fail to detect sewage discharges from a nearby wastewater treatment plant.
Campaigners have accused the Environment Agency (EA) of installing ineffective water quality monitors near England's largest lake, Windermere. The monitors were placed at Cunsey Beck, a tributary of Windermere, following a fish kill in June 2022 where it was suspected that '100% of life' within the river died. Save Windermere , a campaign group, claims that a test using non-toxic dye revealed the monitors were positioned incorrectly, failing to detect flow from a nearby sewage pipe.
The group asserts that the monitors, known as sondes, should be placed upstream of the sewage discharge point to effectively track pollution entering Cunsey Beck. They argue that current placement allows sewage spills from the Near Sawrey Wastewater Treatment Works, managed by United Utilities, to go undetected. Save Windermere has previously raised concerns about the sonde placement twice, leading the EA to relocate them. However, the campaign group maintains the current position is still inadequate.The EA insists it is 'confident' the monitors are placed correctly and has requested more information from Save Windermere regarding their dye test to assess its validity. The agency acknowledges the seriousness of the pollution issue and states that it has reviewed all United Utilities permits for Windermere in 2024, demanding 'stricter environmental standards' which resulted in the company tripling their initial investment. United Utilities, meanwhile, claims to be investing £200 million in the catchment area to treat wastewater to higher standards and reduce discharges into the lake. Save Windermere advocates for more stringent water quality monitoring and accountability from water companies, urging the government to take action to ensure a 'sewage-free Windermere'.
Water Pollution Environment Agency Save Windermere Windermere Sewage Discharge United Utilities Water Quality Monitors
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Hundreds of sewage spills downgraded in seriousness without explanationCampaigners claim there is a lack of transparency in how incidents are assessed
Read more »
Lake Windermere Sewage Permit 'Unfit for Purpose'Campaigners say the sewage treatment works permit for a site releasing effluent into Lake Windermere is 'decrepit, primitive and inadequately maintained' and contribute to high pollution levels. They accuse the Environment Agency of neglecting its duty to protect the iconic site and urge ministers to prioritise national parks in their crackdown on water company pollution.
Read more »
Water firm allowed to pour sewage in Windermere using permit from 1989Treatment works that release sewage into a stream connected to Lake Windermere is 'decrepit, primitive and inadequately maintained', say campaigners
Read more »
Fallbarrow Holiday Park: A Perfect Retreat on the Shores of Lake WindermereEscape to Fallbarrow Holiday Park, located just 90 minutes from Manchester, for a memorable family or couples getaway. This picturesque park, nestled on the edge of the stunning Lake Windermere, offers breathtaking views and direct access to the water's edge. Enjoy a range of activities, luxurious accommodations, and family-friendly facilities at this award-winning park.
Read more »
The £19 a night Lake District holiday park 'perfect' for families this half termIt has hot tub lodges, a children's playground and breathtaking views of Lake Windermere
Read more »
It's time to settle England's No 7 debate - here's who Borthwick should pickEngland back row greats Chris Robshaw and Lawrence Dallaglio assess England's No 7 conundrum
Read more »