Concerns Raised Over Planned Southern Water Overflow Pipe At Bembridge Beach

Residents and community groups in Bembridge have raised concerns over Southern Water's plans to bring an overflow pipe into operation at Silver Sands Beach.

The scheme involves a combined sewer overflow (CSO), designed to discharge excess wastewater and rainwater during periods of heavy rainfall to help prevent flooding of homes and the sewer network.

Local campaigners argue the pipe could affect water quality, public confidence in the beach and the surrounding marine environment, including nearby seagrass meadows within the Bembridge Marine Conservation Zone.

A group called No Poo at the Point has been formed in opposition to the plans, while a petition launched this week has attracted hundreds of signatures.

Bembridge Parish Council has voted to support objections to the proposal and has raised concerns about the level of public consultation carried out before the project was approved.

Questions have also been raised over the planning and environmental assessment process.

Former Isle of Wight councillor and solicitor Warren Drew has written to Southern Water challenging the project and seeking further clarification on the approvals granted.

Southern Water says the overflow is intended to help protect local properties from flooding during extreme weather events.

The company has also indicated that wider infrastructure improvements for the area are planned in the coming years.

Island MP Joe Robertson said he shares concerns about sewage discharges into coastal waters and stressed the importance of protecting local waterways for future generations.

Isle of Wight councillors have also called for further discussions with Southern Water, with meetings expected to take place in the coming weeks.

Work on the project, which had originally been expected to begin in May, was delayed while concerns were considered. Residents say construction is now scheduled to start on 8 June.