By Isle of Wight Observer
Residents have voiced concern over plans by Southern Water to open a combined sewer overflow pipe onto Silver Sands beach at Bembridge Point.
Campaigners say the pipe could discharge untreated sewage onto the beach above the low tide mark, raising concerns about public health, tourism and the environment.
Southern Water says the pipe is needed to help prevent flooding to local homes during extreme weather. However, residents argue that alternatives, such as holding tanks or nature-based solutions, should be considered.
The company has described the work as an extension to an existing pipe, rather than a new outfall, but some residents dispute this, saying they have never known it to be operational.
Local resident David Hunt said: “I have lived in Bembridge for over twenty years and have never known this pipe to be operational.”
Campaigners also say the proposal is a concern because Bembridge is part of a Marine Conservation Zone, with protected seagrass meadows offshore.
A group called No Poo at the Point has been formed to oppose the plans, with a petition gaining 230 signatures within a day.
Bembridge Parish Council has voted to support objections and complain about a lack of public consultation.
Former Isle of Wight councillor and solicitor Warren Drew has written to Southern Water threatening judicial review proceedings, arguing that the proposal was approved without an adequate environmental assessment or enough consideration of alternatives.
Work was delayed from May, but campaigners say it is now expected to start on June 8.
