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City MP urges Southern Water to clean up Langstone Harbour

By 29 April 2021No Comments

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan has written to Southern Water urging them to step up efforts to clean up Langstone Harbour.

The letter, addressed to Chief Executive Ian McAuley, raises ongoing concerns from Portsmouth residents that diluted sewage is being released into the harbour.

Issues with capacity at the nearby Budds Farm treatment facility leads to Combined Sewer Overflows, which present a health and environmental risks.

Last week, it was reported that six discharges had been made in a single day following a system failure.

The Harbour has seen regular use by swimmers, sailors, windsurfers and kitesurfers during the pandemic, with more expected over the summer as Covid restrictions ease.

In the letter, Mr Morgan urges Southern Water to set out its plans to address treatment capacity, tackle excessive discharges and calls for an urgent meeting to discuss the issue further.

Stephen Morgan said:

“I remain deeply concerned by the frequency and volume of sewage discharges into Langstone Harbour, which pose an unacceptable health risk.

“Southern Water must take responsibility and set out clearly how they intend to protect water users and our natural environment.”

The letter is the latest in a string of actions taken by the Portsmouth South MP to clean up the harbour, including engagement with the Solent Protection Society, Hayling Sewage Watch and the Environment Agency.