Exmouth Town Council has welcomed plans by the Environment Agency and South West Water that are designed to improve water quality at Exmouth Beach and reduce the risk of sewage pollution caused by storm overflows.
The Environment Agency has set a clear enforcement position so that South West Water can use a new sea outfall near the existing discharge point in Lyme Bay on a temporary basis ahead of their permit being determined. The aim is to reduce the number of times sewage overflows affect Exmouth Beach, helping to protect one of the town’s most important natural assets.
The Environment Agency says that detailed scientific modelling, reviewed by its marine specialists, shows that using the new outfall should not reduce water quality at Exmouth Beach or harm shellfish waters in Lyme Bay or Sandy Bay.
Councillor Graham Deasy, Mayor of Exmouth and Chair of Exmouth Town Council, said:
“Clean, safe bathing water is essential for our residents, visitors, businesses and wildlife. Exmouth Beach is one of the town’s greatest attractions, and any action that helps reduce pollution and improve water quality is good news.
“We are pleased that the Environment Agency has put strict safeguards in place. South West Water will have to monitor the impact closely and take immediate action if any unexpected environmental problems arise.”
The Town Council has also emphasised that this is not a permanent approval. The temporary permit is known as a Local Enforcement Position (LEP), and can only operate under strict conditions. The Environment Agency has to be satisfied that there is no unacceptable risk to water users or to the environment.
Before using the new outfall, South West Water must put monitoring and contingency plans in place. They will also have to demonstrate that the change does not lead to any deterioration in water quality.
The Environment Agency has also made it clear to SWW, that improvements to the Maer Lane Sewage Treatment Works are expected to be completed by 31 December 2028.
The Town Council believes that cleaner bathing water would bring significant benefits to Exmouth. It would increase confidence for swimmers and other water users, support local tourism, protect marine wildlife and help safeguard the long-term health of the town’s coastline.
South West Water have applied for permission to make the new outfall permanent. As a result the Environment Agency will shortly launch a public consultation before making its decision.
Exmouth Town Council is encouraging residents, businesses, community groups, environmental organisations and everyone who enjoys Exmouth Beach to take part.
Councillor Deasy added:
“This consultation gives local people the opportunity to have their say on an issue that matters to all of us. Whether you support the proposal, have concerns or simply want to understand more about it, I encourage everyone to take part and make their views known.
“Public involvement is an important part of the decision-making process and will help shape the future of Exmouth’s beaches, environment and local economy.”
The Town Council will publish details of the consultation as soon as they are available. It anticipates working with the Environment Agency to organise a public drop-in event where residents can learn more about the proposals, ask questions, examine the evidence and submit their views.”
For further information please contact:
Environment Agency Exmouth Customer Engagement Team
Website: Exmouth – Pollution Incident Response | Engage Environment Agency
Email: DCISenquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk Phone: 03708 506 506
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