Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction

Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction is an environmental policy led by Defra and Ofwat to reduce untreated sewage discharges into waterways and coastal areas. The plan targets a 45% reduction in storm overflow events compared to 2021 baseline and upgrade of over 1,700 water treatment works. Current status shows increasing spill events (from 15 to 33 average per site annually) and concerns about antimicrobial resistance pathogen spread through contaminated waters.