Demanding better water quality for Cornwall

Water quality is an important issue for Cornwall. Our beaches, rivers, and seas are central to our well-being, economy, and way of life. Every day, I hear from people about sewage pollution, with surfers and swimmers getting ill. Cornwall has been troubled by sewage spills for too long, and now it is time for change. As your MP, protecting our coastline and ensuring clean, safe water is a top priority of mine.

The new Government is taking steps to address poor water quality. The Water (Special Measures) Bill is a key part of this plan, ensuring water companies are accountable. This Bill empowers the Environment Agency to bring criminal charges and impose fines while also giving Ofwat the authority to stop performance-related bonuses for company executives. Real-time monitoring of sewage outlets will help ensure we know exactly what is going on.

In 2024, South West Water were among the worst offenders in the UK for pollution incidents. In places like Porthluney Beach, sewage contamination has made it one of the dirtiest beaches in the UK. Cornwall deserves better.

I had the opportunity to question the CEO of South West Water at the Government’s Environment Select Committee. Watch the interview here

Jayne in the Government’s Environment Select Committee questioning the CEO of SWW.

I pressed South West Water to allow residents to test water quality in their areas for pollution, and it seems they are willing to let us do that. I will hold them to their word and continue pushing for the changes we need. See SWW's response

Cornwall deserves clean, safe water. It’s time for South West Water to deliver on their promises — no more excuses.