Bembridge Residents Oppose Planned Southern Water Overflow Pipe On Beach

A group of Bembridge residents is campaigning against Southern Water's plans to install an overflow pipe on Silver Sands Beach, arguing it could have environmental and public health impacts.

The proposed pipe would form part of the wastewater network and, according to Southern Water, is intended to help prevent flooding of nearby homes during periods of extreme weather.

Local campaigners claim the overflow could discharge untreated wastewater onto the beach and have raised concerns about potential effects on water quality, tourism and the surrounding marine environment.

Residents have formed a campaign group called No Poo at the Point and launched a petition opposing the plans.

Organisers say the petition attracted more than 200 signatures within its first day.

Among those objecting is Plastic Free Bembridge, which has submitted concerns to Southern Water, the Environment Agency, the Marine Management Organisation and the Isle of Wight Council.

Campaigners have also highlighted the area's status as a Marine Conservation Zone, with concerns raised about potential impacts on seagrass meadows and other protected habitats off the Bembridge coast.

Local resident David Hunt said he had never known the pipe to be operational during his time living in the village and questioned the need for the scheme.

Andrew Holman, of Harbour Farm Nature Group, described the proposals as concerning given the environmental importance of the area.

Bembridge Parish Council has voted to support objections to the plans and has agreed to raise concerns about what it says was a lack of public consultation.

Isle of Wight councillor Mark Rochell said he has been in discussions with Southern Water chief executive Lawrence Gosden about arranging a meeting with Isle of Wight councillors and potentially a public meeting to discuss the proposals.

Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson said he shares concerns about sewage discharges into coastal waters and believes action should be taken to protect them for future generations.

Southern Water has said the scheme is designed to reduce the risk of flooding to local properties during severe weather events.

The company has also indicated that wider improvements to local wastewater infrastructure are planned from 2028.

Work that had been expected to begin in May was delayed following legal representations made on behalf of local residents.

Campaigners say they understand construction is now due to start on 8 June.

The company has not yet publicly responded to the latest concerns raised by campaigners.