URGENT UPDATE: North Devon’s beaches may finally receive the protection they need as Ofwat, the current water watchdog, is set to be abolished and replaced with a new, tougher regulator. This announcement has been welcomed by local MP Ian Roome and the Liberal Democrats, who have long advocated for stricter oversight of water companies to combat the alarming rates of sewage dumping.
Just today, Environment Secretary Steve Reed confirmed the overhaul of what he described as a “broken” system, following a recent report from the Independent Water Commission led by Jon Cunliffe. The report emphasizes the need for a regulatory body equipped with supervisory powers akin to those that monitor banks post-2008 financial crisis, ensuring compliance and environmental protection within water companies.
The urgency of this change is underscored by the troubling history of South West Water (SWW), which has faced scrutiny for multiple sewage spills across the region. Earlier this month, SWW agreed to pay a staggering £24 million as an “enforcement package” after an investigation by Ofwat revealed significant failures in wastewater management. Recently, SWW was also responsible for the longest sewage spill recorded in the UK in 2024.
Ian Roome expressed his approval of the new regulatory approach, declaring it a “victory for local people.” He stated, “North Devon’s beaches and rivers are one of the best things about living here, but they’re being put at risk by sewage spills and the failings of Ofwat and South West Water.” Roome also acknowledged the community’s support in his campaign, emphasizing that he heard from countless residents frustrated with the state of local waterways and the perceived lack of accountability from water companies.
This pivotal shift in regulation comes at a critical time for the South West, where communities have been increasingly vocal about environmental concerns. Roome vowed to continue fighting for cleaner waterways, lower bills, and stricter enforcement against sewage spills. “This fight is far from over,” he warned, urging the government to act swiftly to establish the new regulator.
The recent Ofwat investigation indicated that South West Water had not sufficiently built or operated its wastewater treatment works and sewer networks, lacking adequate management systems to meet legal obligations. While SWW acknowledged the findings, they described some issues as “historical” and proposed a ring-fenced investment program to reduce spills and establish a Nature Recovery Fund.
As developments unfold, residents of North Devon and surrounding areas are poised to watch how these changes will impact their beaches, rivers, and overall quality of life. The community’s hopes for a cleaner, safer environment hinge on the successful implementation of a robust regulatory framework that prioritizes public health and ecological integrity.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent issue as the government moves forward with plans to protect North Devon’s precious waterways.