Understand
Plymouth swimmers hit with second sewage warning in a week
Overview
Swimmers in Plymouth have been advised to avoid the water at Plymouth Hoe West and Plymouth Hoe East following a sewage discharge caused by operational issues at the Plymouth Central Wastewater Treatment Works. This marks the second sewage warning in a week, prompting criticism from local MP Luke Pollard and an ongoing investigation by the Environment Agency.
Key points
- The Environment Agency issued no-swim advice for Plymouth Hoe West and Plymouth Hoe East on Friday.
- The warning follows an unpermitted sewage discharge due to operational issues at Plymouth Central Wastewater Treatment Works.
- A separate sewage discharge had already halted bathing in the area the previous week.
- Local MP Luke Pollard expressed anger over the incident and issued a six-week ultimatum for infrastructure investment.
- South West Water stated it was undertaking maintenance and working closely with the Environment Agency.
- The Environment Agency confirmed that an investigation is ongoing with potential enforcement action.