Water Watchdog examines pollution-busting efforts in South West England

6 Apr 2018 11:48 AM

Efforts to reduce pollution and improve water quality in South West England will be at the top of the agenda when the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) meets in Truro on Tuesday (10 April).

The Water Watchdog has invited water companies and farmers from across the region to explain to members of the public how they are working together to manage the impact agriculture has on water resources.

South West Water will showcase its work with farmers in areas including Exmoor and Dartmoor, to reduce pollution downstream and protect the region’s rivers and beaches. Wessex Water will also discuss the action it is taking to reduce nitrate levels in Poole Harbour, without the need for large-scale investment.

There will be an opportunity for people to put their own questions to water companies and CCWater’s Board on any water or sewerage-related issues.

David Heath CBE, Western Chair of the Consumer Council for Water, said: “Managing the impact agriculture has on our water resources and wider environment is a huge challenge. We’re looking forward to hearing how water companies and farmers in South West England are working together to achieve this.”

Guests will also hear how the Refill Bristol scheme is helping to reduce plastic bottle waste by making it easier for people to top-up with free tap water at more than 200 refill points across the city including cafes, bars and restaurants.

CCWater welcomed plans announced by water companies in January to replicate the success of the Bristol scheme in other parts of the country.

The meeting gets underway at the Municipal Buildings on Boscawen Street from 10.30am and anyone interested in attending is asked to email Alison.townsend@ccwater.org.uk to confirm.

For more information or to arrange an interview with David Heath please call the media team on 0121 345 1005.