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Protecting Newbury’s Rivers: The Fight for Clean Water

Newbury is fortunate to be home to two of the nation’s most precious chalk streams, the River Kennet and the River Lambourn. These rivers are not only stunning natural assets but also vital to our local ecosystem, economy, and water supply. Yet, they face an ongoing threat: the persistent dumping of sewage.


In 2023 alone, the River Kennet endured 362 sewage spills from storm overflows, lasting over 4,000 hours. Meanwhile, the River Lambourn, though affected less frequently, still suffered five spills, totalling 38 hours. These discharges are not just statistics—they represent real damage to the quality of our rivers and the life they sustain.


A Decline in Wildlife and Local Livelihoods

Both the Kennet and Lambourn are home to a rich array of wildlife, including wild brown trout, kingfishers, otters, and brook lampreys. Sadly, the health of these habitats is under severe threat, leading to a significant loss of wildlife.


The damage isn’t just environmental—it’s economic too. Local businesses that once thrived on angling activity are feeling the impact of fewer visitors coming to fish in our rivers. Clean, healthy waterways aren’t just a source of pride; they’re also a crucial part of Newbury’s economy.


The Risk to Our Drinking Water

Beyond supporting wildlife and recreation, these rivers are essential for Newbury’s drinking water supply. However, repeated sewage spills have compromised their condition, raising concerns about their reliability as a source of clean water.


A National Crisis in Our Waterways

The challenges facing the Kennet and Lambourn reflect a broader national issue. Across the UK, sewage spills increased by 54% in 2023 compared to the previous year, with chemicals from these spills posing serious risks to public health and aquatic life.


In Newbury alone, the scale of the problem is staggering: 561 sewage spills in 2023, lasting nearly 2,000 hours in total. Each spill represents a failure to protect our natural environment and a step back in the fight against pollution.


What Needs to Change

The government’s recent announcement of an independent commission to review the water industry is a step in the right direction, but it must not be used as an excuse to delay much-needed reforms. Water companies must be held accountable for their actions, and urgent action is required to prevent further harm to our waterways.


The Liberal Democrats have proposed the creation of a Clean Water Authority, a body dedicated to regulating water companies with equal focus on financial and environmental performance. This dual approach is essential if we are to protect our rivers, lakes, and seas from further degradation.


Time is Running Out

Our rivers are part of what makes Newbury such a special place to live, work, and visit. But without immediate action, the damage being done to these precious waterways could become irreversible.


I remain committed to fighting for clean water in Newbury and across the UK. By holding water companies to account, investing in infrastructure, and prioritising environmental protection, we can preserve these vital natural assets for future generations. Together, we must act before it’s too late.

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