From green energy to the area's waterways

IN the run-up to the General Election, The Herald has asked the political parties to explain how key policy areas will benefit Plymouth. Today, we look at the environment

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CONSERVATIVE

JOHNNY Mercer, Conservative Candidate for Plymouth Moor View says no one should have to worry about clean water in Britain’s Ocean City. “Discharges of raw sewage into our open water is completely unacceptable, and it is why we have taken action to stop it,” he says.

“Clearly, the current levels of raw sewage being released into our waters are not only stomach churning, but a real public health and environmental hazard. I swim in Plymouth Sound most Fridays and share your frustrations – it is something that I’m constantly monitoring.

“Information about storm overflows activity was made publicly available by the Government’s Environment Act 2021 and have shocked many – myself included. I’ve met with Ofwat, South West Water and Surfers Against Sewage, representing the specific concerns raised by you.

“Monitoring of the frequency and duration of discharges by Ofwat has risen from roughly 7% in 2010 to 100% today. South West Water have launched WaterFit Live, a publicly available interactive map which tracks the use of storm overflows. The End Sewage Pollution Manifesto by Surfers Against Sewage makes an important contribution to public debate. I welcome these steps to share more data on sewage discharge. Only by knowing the full extent of the problem can we tackle it.

“There is no quick-fix, cost-free solution. The truth is sewage systems need a major upgrade and that is beginning to happen. The Government’s Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan sets out stringent targets backed up by up to £60 billion capital investment – the largest of its kind. I will make sure that these pledges are met and, crucially, deliver a step change which matches the lived experiences of people in Plymouth.”

LABOUR