River Chess and Sewage

Environment

River Chess

We mentioned recently that Thames Water identified significant groundwater ingress points into Chesham’s sewers. This extra water, on top of wet weather, adds to the frequency of sewage releases polluting the Chess.  We’re pleased to say that Thames Water recently started work to fix the issue in ten Chesham hotspots for groundwater infiltration. They will work overnight to minimise disruption.

The River Chess Association believes discharges are happening every day, making nearly 50 days in a row.  A wet spring might beat the 2014 record of 92 continuous daily events.  The River Chess Association are meeting with Thames Water soon, to discuss the situation.

Meanwhile we’re pleased to tell you our MP Gagan Mohindra fully supports Philip Dunne MP’s Sewage (Inland Waters) Private Member’s Bill, which if passed into law will require water companies to:

  • take steps to stop discharging sewage into rivers in England;
  • set out plans to reduce their reliance on combined sewer overflows (CSOs);
  • publicly report on the number, condition and quality of sewage discharges in CSOs.

Over 130 MPs have already shown their support for this Bill.  Gagan welcomes any constituents’ letters of support for the Bill, and signatures on any petitions doing the rounds, to help him demonstrate support from his constituency for these important measures.

Angela Killick, CRA