Local community members in North Devon are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of sewage dumping at Saunton Sands, a beach recognised for its natural beauty and ecological significance. In response to rising tensions, the Save Our Sands (SOS) group, in collaboration with Love Braunton, has launched a new fundraising initiative titled 'Stand Up for Saunton'. This campaign aims to secure £5,000 to fund legal advice that may lead to a judicial review against South West Water and the Environmental Agency regarding their alleged failures to prevent pollution in the region.
Saunton Sands is not just a popular destination for beachgoers; it is situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and adjacent to Braunton Burrows, a part of the North Devon Biosphere—the UK’s first UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve. As part of their campaign, local environmental activists claim that untreated sewage has been discharged into the sea through the Taw outfall pipe operated by South West Water, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Helen Cooper of SOS expressed her concerns regarding the regulatory bodies involved. "We believe that the Environment Agency has failed in its statutory responsibilities to protect Saunton Beach and the surrounding nature reserve from pollution, and that South West Water has failed in its duty to prevent pollution caused by discharges from its assets," she stated. Cooper highlighted the recent enforcement actions taken against South West Water but emphasised that these measures do not sufficiently address the larger issues at hand.
In a similar vein, Sue Prosper, representing Love Braunton, voiced her group's stance. "We are clear that South West Water must not be allowed to continue to pollute and degrade this highly protected area. A failure to act will damage North Devon's communities, its environment and its economy," she commented, reflecting a deep-seated concern for the future of the region.
The campaign aims to provide both entities—the Environment Agency and South West Water—with a wake-up call regarding their environmental responsibilities. The funds raised will assist in obtaining legal advice from a solicitor with expertise in environmental law, potentially paving the way for further judicial review proceedings.
Individuals interested in supporting this environmental cause can find more information and donation options through platforms like Facebook via Save Our Sands or by reaching out to Love Braunton directly.
Source: Noah Wire Services