Southern Water To Invest £20 Million To Cut Storm Overflows Across Isle Of Wight

Southern Water is set to begin a major programme of work aimed at reducing storm overflows across the Isle of Wight, with around £20 million due to be invested over the next two years.

The work will focus on key locations including West Wight, Newport, Gurnard, East and West Cowes, and Ryde, with the aim of protecting rivers, coastlines and bathing waters.

The programme has been brought forward thanks to accelerated funding approved by water regulator Ofwat, allowing investigations and planning work to start sooner than originally planned.

The Isle of Wight has already been the focus of innovative trials to reduce storm overflows, with around £9 million previously invested to test a range of solutions.

Southern Water says the next phase will identify both quick fixes and longer-term projects designed to reduce the frequency and volume of storm overflows.

Graham Williamson, Project Manager for the Isle of Wight, said:

"The Isle of Wight is home to some of the UK's most treasured rivers, coastlines and bathing waters, and we are determined to play our part in protecting them.

"By combining targeted investment, innovation and practical action, we can significantly reduce the frequency and volume of storm overflows and create a cleaner, healthier and more resilient environment for future generations.

"We are building on the knowledge, expertise and local insight we have already gained to focus investment where it will have the greatest impact.

"This includes delivering sustainable drainage solutions that slow the flow of rainwater, separating surface water from homes, schools and commercial buildings, and continuing to improve the performance and resilience of our existing network."