Newbury hosts first ever Surfers Against Sewage protest in Victoria Park against record levels of sewage pollution
More than 50 people joined a protest against sewage pollution caused by water companies in Victoria Park on Saturday (May 17).
Residents of Newbury and Thatcham joined thousands of water users in more than 40 locations across the UK in calling for total reform and clearer monitoring of the water industry in England and Wales.
The number of sewage spills into England’s waterways hit a record-breaking 464,056 in 2023, despite rising household bills and fines issued to private water companies for failing to meet their environmental targets aimed at reducing pollution.
The protests were organised by environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage.
The Newbury protest – the first in the district – was organised by Eco Friends West Berkshire with support from Newbury Town Council, Thatcham Town Council and Newbury MP Lee Dillon.
Jenny Kirby, one of the organisers, said of the event: “I was really satisfied that people came and gave their time up so willingly to come and do something.
“I think one of the best things we did was the short quiz.
“People didn’t realise how much sewage water companies actually discharged from sewage works into the river.
“We tried to make them realise that discharge is actually really local to where they are.”
Fellow organiser Sam Carpenter added: “This was the first time we held this event and next year will be bigger and better. We aren’t going away until it’s sorted.”
Surfers Against Sewage CEO Giles Bristow said: “Our failing water industry has been trumpeting billions in investment to clean up their act, but we know that these fat cat bosses can’t be trusted to keep their promises.
“The proof is in the missed targets, shocking statistics and devastating stories of sickness we continue to see year after year.”
The protests took place as the Independent Water Commission reviews its evidence before making recommendations to the Government on reforming the water industry in England and Wales.
