A LETTER FROM A CORRESPONDENT
Dear Owl,
Last night, I attended the event on the top floor of Ocean, on Exmouth seafront about the possibility of Exmouth businesses and residents pursuing legal action against South West Water.
What struck me was those who attended the event ranged from people in their late teens to the elderly. All there because “Enough is Enough!” about the damaging effects of sewage is having on people’s lives.
Looking around the room, I spotted Town, District and County councillors who represent constituents in Exmouth, They have different political allegiances, but nevertheless united in wanting an end to sewage pollution. Councillor Paul Arnott, the Liberal Democrats leader of East Devon District Council was also present.
Nicky Nicholls, Community and Innovation lead at Sideshore, introduced the event. Andy Tyerman, of End Sewage and Poollution In Exmouth (ESCAPE) campaign group spoke briefly about his and Geoff Crawford’s work. This was followed by two businesses who shared their experiences of the devastating effect of the constant sewage pollution during August had on their businesses. Jo Bateman, the Exmouth swimmer spoke about why she is taking legal action against South West Water.
Representatives from Leigh Day, a legal firm spoke about how they work and the way forward if they decide to take on our case. They emphasised it would be done on a ‘No Win No Fee’ basis.
Many questions were asked by members of the audience. These included questions from
* environmentalists
* people who use the sea and beach for health benefits
* people who use it for recreational purposes such as rowers, sailors, kitesurfers, kayakers etc
* people who are now reluctant to walk their dog on the beach
* people who live near the water
* people whose businesses rely on trade
* people who are concerned about the devastating effects sewage pollution could have on the town’s future as a tourist destination
* people who are regular visitors to the town who are seeing their lifestyles compromised
I was aware that people with families whose lifestyles have been thwarted by sewage pollution may not have been able to attend.
Nicky Nicholls concluded the event by informing those present that ESCAPE and Sideshore will provide people with regular updates on their social media about this situation.
I urge people affected by sewage pollution in Exmouth to register their interest to join the Exmouth v South West Water. It’s for each family member and club member to complete as individuals.and can so by completing the form below:
East Devon Watch 