By Mal Butler
Southern Water is one of three major water companies that discharged sewage hundreds of times last year on days when it was not raining.
The practice, known as “dry spilling”, is banned because it can lead to higher concentrations of sewage in waterways.
Southern Water, along with Thames and Wessex, appear to have collectively released sewage in dry spills for 3,500 hours in 2022, in breach of their permits, according to BBC News.
Without rainwater, the sewage is likely to be less diluted – leading to build-ups of algae which produce toxins. Dr Linda May, a water ecologist at the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, said: “It can be fatal to pets and pose a health risk to swimmers.”
Southern Water was unable to supply details of the number of dry spillages on the Island. But John Penicud, head of wastewater, said: “So called ‘dry spills’ are a complex issue. Water is a powerful force of nature, and high groundwater conditions can lead to rising water finding the path of least resistance into a network of sewer pipes and manholes. A discharge made up of groundwater is not caused by rainfall and can happen in dry weather. It is required to be reported as a ‘spill’.
“The problem is especially challenging in areas prone to flooding, as mitigation measures, such as sewer relining and manhole sealing, redirects flows, and groundwater can then cause flooding. Private, illegal connections to the system are another potential source.
“We work with the Environment Agency and stakeholders to cut these so-called ‘dry spills’ – and all forms of water and wastewater releases.”
Isle of Wight Observer