“We welcome any move to cut storm releases. Protecting the environment is a key priority for Southern Water. While storm releases protect homes from flooding and are permitted during heavy rain, we have already committed to go further than the Government proposal by reducing them by 80% by 2030, a move which is backed by our customers.
Our innovative storm water taskforce is already working on five pathfinder projects focussing on natural solutions such as water gardens and swales to cut or slow the flow of water into our systems.
As part of our commitment to transparency, our Beachbuoy app shows in near real-time, 365 days a year, any release with the potential to affect bathing water. This has built awareness of the system and the need to work in partnership with our customers, councils, developers, NGOs and regulators to drive a significant change.
Dr Toby Willison, Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer