United Utilities pumps 450,778 hours worth of sewage, as Stockport MPs warn ‘OFWAT must go’

Last year, United Utilities pumped 450,778 hours worth of sewage into waterways, according to new data published today. 

Across Stockport, residents continue to be extremely concerned about the spoiling of the Rover Goyt and River Tame, as well as smaller waterways such as Poise Brook and Micker Brook. 

The Liberal Democrats are calling for the government to replace Ofwat with a new regulator with proper enforcement powers to hold water companies accountable and put a stop to the sewage scandal. 

Tom Morrison, the Lib Dem MP for Cheadle said: “Here in Cheadle, residents are appalled by what’s happening to the likes of Micker Brook and Lady Brook, all whilst facing sky-high water bills. 

“The Government should act now to get a new regulator in place to protect British rivers and seas from being pumped with disgusting sewage. Ofwat must go. 

“I and the Liberal Democrats will continue to protect our local rivers and brooks, and fight for much tougher regulation of a water industry which is profiting from pollution.”

Meanwhile Lisa Smart, MP for Hazel Grove, has continued to drive United Utilities to go further and faster on works to improve the storm overflows and cut sewage dumping into waterways like the River Goyt. 

She said: “Talking to them ahead of the publishing of these figures, it was clear that they were taking the issue seriously – although the figures across the UK show that this is an industry which failed to do so for far too long. 

“We are waiting for information on exactly what works are planned and when, and we will absolutely be holding their feet to the fire to deliver the improvements that are needed, and making sure they are not just loading the cost of that on to consumers.”