Wild Justice files claim for court action against Ofwat over sewage discharges

Not-for-profit nature conservation advocate and legal activist Wild Justice has filed a legal claim in the High Court seeking a judicial review of what it described as Ofwat's failure to regulate sewage discharges under the Water Industry Act 1991 and the Urban Waste Water Treatment (England and Wales) Regulations 1994.

This followed a formal letter to Ofwat in April in which Wild Justice set out its concerns and sought a response. “Their response didn’t convince us,” the activist said. It subsequently launched the next phase of its action, badged “Ofwat – where are you?” and opened a crowdfunder seeking £40,000 to cover its legal costs so far. The sum was exceeded in the first day, with over 1,500 individuals donating.

Wild Justice, which is working closely with Windrush Against Sewage Pollution, commented: ‘We believe that Ofwat has gone missing in addressing its legal obligations to ensure sewage works are fit for purpose in the 21st century. Ofwat – more like Ofwhere?! Our challenge aims to make Ofwat take action.”

The campaigner said Ofwat would need to prepare detailed legal arguments and file them with the court, and that a judge would then decide whether the challenge can proceed to court.