Dozens join webinar on sewage pollution claims

Dozens of people logged on to a public webinar hosted by environmental law firm Leigh Day to learn more about legal action linked to sewage pollution in the South West.

The online briefing, held on 10 March, gave residents, businesses and water users the opportunity to hear directly from the legal team about a growing case against South West Water.

Participants were able to ask questions and find out more about the claim, which relates to alleged sewage pollution affecting coastal and estuary communities including Exmouth, Lympstone and Budleigh Salterton.

Leigh Day told attendees the firm was currently acting for around 1,400 claimants, including individuals and businesses who say they have suffered loss or disruption as a result of sewage discharges into rivers and coastal waters.

Among those said to be affected is celebrity chef Michael Caines MBE, who previously owned the seafront restaurant Mickeys in Exmouth through his company Maer Beach Ltd.

The Michelin-starred chef said the business relied heavily on seasonal trade linked to beach use and tourism. However, he alleged repeated sewage pollution incidents and beach closures during the summer of 2024 led to a sharp fall in customer numbers and revenue.

According to Leigh Day, concerns about the ongoing pollution issues in Exmouth eventually led investors to withdraw their support, and the restaurant closed at the end of 2024.

The claim alleges that pollution from sewage overflows has affected bathing waters, shellfish areas and waterways used for swimming, sailing and other recreational activities.

Businesses involved in watersports, hospitality and tourism are among those who say they have been impacted, while some residents claim sewage pollution has interfered with the use and enjoyment of their property.

Leigh Day has issued a Letter Before Action signalling its intention to bring proceedings in the High Court of England and Wales against South West Water and its parent company Pennon Group.

During the webinar, the firm explained the legal basis of the case, how group claims work and what the next steps in the process could involve for those taking part in the action.