The meeting was briefly reported on BBC Spotlight, full report yet to emerge but here is the background – Owl

Exmouth Sewage Pollution Claim | Leigh Day

We are assisting the residents of Exmouth in exploring the possibility of bringing legal action against South West Water over its pollution of Exmouth Beach and surrounding area. www.leighday.co.uk

Sewage Pollution in Exmouth

Exmouth Beach, often called the “gateway to UNESCO’s World Heritage Jurassic Coast” is the prized asset of Exmouth and is of vital importance with much of the Devon town’s economy revolving around the tourism the beach attracts.

However, according to local reports, South West Water repeatedly discharges large amounts of untreated sewage into the River Exe and Sea which is having a detrimental impact on Exmouth Beach and the surrounding area.

The impact of these discharges is acknowledged by both the Environment Agency and South West Water, with the Environment Agency having issued numerous ‘do not swim’ warnings in recent years and South West Water regularly stating on its website that discharges may affect the condition of the bathing water.

Paul Arnott, the East Devonshire District Council leader declared a state of “ongoing civil emergency” due to beaches having to be closed repeatedly from Seaton to Sidmouth because of sewage discharges. Most recently, during the August 2024 Bank Holiday weekend, the local council had to put Red Flag warnings up on Exmouth Beach to prevent people from entering the water.

What do I need to know?

We currently represent wild swimmer and Exmouth resident Jo Bateman in her claim against South West Water. Jo Bateman is arguing that South West Water’s continued pollution of the sea has prevented her swimming in the sea on numerous days.  

By working with Jo Bateman, it became clear that many others within Exmouth were also being impacted by the activities of South West Water and following a meeting with members of the local community, we were asked whether we could also represent others in a group action.  

Most people who live in the area or regularly visit the area will be able to join the claim, including if you: 

• Rely on the sea at Exmouth Beach or the River Exe for hobbies and leisure and have been affected by the pollution.
• Have a business which has been affected by the pollution.  

To register your interest in this potential claim, please complete the online form here.  

If you would like to meet the legal team looking to bring this claim and hear more about the potential legal action, we will be attending a community meeting on Tuesday 17 September 2024 at Ocean Suite, Queen’s Dr, Exmouth EX8 2AY please complete this form.

Affected by this issue?

If you have been affected by sewage pollution in Exmouth, then you can contact us via our expression of interest form.