Septic Waste Disposal in Cornwall

Earlier this year, Cornwall faced a growing crisis in septic tank waste disposal following severe storms and heavy rainfall. Treatment works struggled with capacity, forcing companies to transport waste long distances up to Bristol. This was costing a great deal of money and time. There were even cases of sewage overflowing onto streets.

In response, I coordinated a joint letter from Cornish MPs to the Water Minister, Emma Hardy. This led to a roundtable with the Environment Agency, South West Water and industry representatives to urgently address the issue. Everyone agreed to work together, and this collaboration has delivered results.

Capacity has been increased at Hayle sewage treatment works, meaning it can cope even during heavy rainfall, and additional capacity has also been secured at Newham in Truro and in Plymouth. This should cover this year and possibly next, while longer-term plans are developed.

This is good news for Cornwall’s visitor economy as holiday parks and camp sites fill up, and a great example of what can be achieved when people work together, cross-government and cross-agency, with business. It moves things on quickly and gets stuff done.