UK Environmental news
 | Wednesday 15th July 2009 Low Fine for Polluting Water Company Late last year, a member of the public noticed raw sewage pumping in to Trevaunance Cove stream just 750 meters upstream from Trevaunance Cove. The Cove is a popular beach near St. Agnes in Cornwall designated as a safe bathing beach. The observer notified the Environment Agency immediately and local water contractors were able to stop the deluge in good time, however significant amounts of sewage had been flowing in to the stream for almost three hours. An officer for the Environment Agency tested bacteria levels in both the stream and nearby sea water and found levels of faecal coliform 50 times the Guideline bathing water standard. The local Council had to hastily erect signs warning potential swimmers and surfers of the danger. The nearby Peterville Pumping Station, operated by South West Water, had suffered a breakdown in one of it's pumps and this resulted in the sewage being discharged in to the stream. South West Water were unable to provide a reason for the pump failure. The Environment Agency brought the case to court on the 9th July and South West Water pleaded guilty to allowing the sewage to contaminate controlled waters. The penalty? A mere £2000 fine and £1883 in costs. Although the Environment agency should be applauded for bringing the case to court, the penalty is an affront to their hard work. If the water companies are let of so lightly when serious flaws are exposed, it is unlikely to force them to improve their practices. |
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