Severn Trent Allocates £800m to Combat River Pollution

Severn Trent Water has announced an £800 million investment aimed at addressing the discharge of untreated waste into rivers in the Midlands. This initiative follows concerns regarding the incomplete removal of phosphate from waste at the company’s Diglis treatment facility in Worcester. Data from the Environment Agency indicates that untreated waste was released into the river on 81 occasions throughout 2023. This Sunday, thousands of individuals from across the Midlands are expected to gather to emphasize the significance of clean water. Severn Trent stated its commitment to “quickly” reducing its environmental impact and improving river health. Conversely, campaigner Glyn Marshall reported observing a substantial impact on the river, expressing concern that it could “die” without intervention, noting significant effects on fish and other aquatic life. Mr. Marshall, an angler, presented the BBC with data from his personal tests, which he asserted demonstrated wastewater entering the river on dry days. This practice, known as “dry spilling,” involves discharging sewage when it is not raining and is prohibited due to the potential for elevated sewage concentrations in waterways. Mr. Marshall articulated his concerns, stating: “Unless something is done quickly, I fear that the fish living in the river will be drastically reduced. I’m worried that some of the bigger species won’t be here within five years.” Severn Trent Water indicated its collaboration with citizen scientists but cautioned that individual tests might not consistently be reliable. A spokesperson affirmed: “All of our spill data is shared with the Environment Agency and we continue to be completely open and transparent while continuing to reduce spills and improve river health.” The company also mentioned plans to invest £100 million in enhancements across 23 of its facilities in Worcestershire. The spokesperson further elaborated: “We’re reducing our impact on the River Severn quickly, as we’re investing more and progressing faster than any other water company.” They added: “While there’s many factors make up river health, we have invested heavily in phosphate removal across our sites that feed into the River Severn and are investing a further £24m specifically at our treatment works in Diglis on more phosphate removal.” Environmental campaigners are calling on authorities to take measures against individuals and corporations responsible for polluting rivers, lakes, and seas. Environment Secretary Steve Reed has stated that he “shares the public’s anger on this issue.”