CCW responds to the poor health of English rivers

CCW has today responded to the Environmental Audit Committee’s report on the poor health of England’s rivers opens in new window, which warns of failures in monitoring, governance and enforcement.

Emma Clancy, Chief Executive of CCW, said:

The water sector must work harder to hear the voices of all people and communities in the debate around protecting our rivers and streams. That includes setting higher standards for the performance of our sewerage system so that they reflect modern expectations. CCW is determined to improve the availability of public information on environmental issues. We support the calls for greater transparency around storm overflows so communities are empowered to hold their water company and others to account. We must also put in place more effective and consistent support for those who cannot afford their water bill to help open up the conversation with customers on future investment.

Read the EAC report. opens in new window

Why is there sometimes sewage in our rivers? Read our FAQs.

If you are concerned about a possible sewage spill in a local body of water, you should contact the Environment Agency opens in new window to report an incident.