Concerns Rise Over River Lim's Sewage Crisis as Campaigners Demand Urgent Action

Campaigners in west Dorset have raised alarms about the health of the River Lim, with a newly published report detailing the troubling levels of human sewage contaminating the water. The River Lim Action (RLA) group, which has been diligently monitoring the river for the past two years, has compiled its findings and recommended viable solutions to tackle the pollution crisis that poses risks to both public health and the local environment. The report synthesizes data from the RLA's own observations during the bathing season, alongside analyses conducted by the Environment Agency (EA) at two local beaches—Church Cliff and Front Beach—as well as additional monitoring by South West Water (SWW). Alarmingly, tests from the EA earlier this year revealed that over 86 percent of bacteria found at the river's mouth were human-derived, a stark contrast to just 2.5 percent detected at the Woodmead Road bridge. Additionally, traces of ruminant and avian waste were identified, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the pollution problem. In response to these findings, the RLA has proposed four main strategies aimed at significantly reducing the human sewage levels in the river. However, the report stresses that achieving these reductions will necessitate a substantial investment in infrastructure upgrades. The campaigners expressed their disappointment over SWW's recent decisions, claiming that the water utility has scaled back on its investment plans and is not fulfilling its prior commitment to enhance storage capabilities at the Uplyme Sewage Treatment Works. Vicki Elcoate of the RLA emphasized the importance of high-quality bathing waters for the community, stating, "Now we've done the research we're confident we know what needs to happen to get there. Our report identifies the problems and the solutions." She expressed optimism about collaborating with SWW, the EA, and Dorset Council to implement effective changes. In response to the concerns raised, South West Water has acknowledged the need to address storm overflows in Lyme Regis and across the wider region. The company has set ambitious targets to limit discharges from all seven storm overflows in the area, aiming for no more than two spills per bathing season and an average of ten spills per year by 2027. SWW has already undertaken measures in the Uplyme catchment to mitigate groundwater infiltration into the sewage system and is actively working to eliminate illegal wastewater connections. As the debate continues, the future of the River Lim hangs in the balance. The path ahead will require not only investment and commitment from water utilities but also engagement from local authorities and community groups dedicated to preserving the river's health for generations to come. The RLA's report serves as a crucial step in pushing for accountability and action, urging stakeholders to prioritize the safety and cleanliness of this vital waterway.