The Environment Agency has opened a seven-week public consultation on South West Water’s application to permanently operate a new long sea outfall serving Exmouth sewage treatment works.
The new outfall, located around 300 metres south of Straight Point, has already been granted conditional temporary permission to operate under a Local Enforcement Position (LEP). It is intended to discharge treated wastewater further offshore and, during periods of heavy rainfall, settled storm sewage, helping to reduce the risk of pollution reaching Exmouth Beach bathing waters and the Exe Estuary.
To secure permanent approval, South West Water has applied to vary its environmental permits. The Environment Agency said the company must demonstrate that the proposal meets environmental standards, complies with regulatory policy and protects bathing waters, shellfish waters, conservation sites and wildlife.
The consultation runs until 22 September 2026, with responses invited from local residents, stakeholders and other interested parties before the regulator reaches a decision.
The Environment Agency said detailed scientific modelling indicates the longer outfall should reduce the frequency of storm overflow impacts on Exmouth Beach while supporting improvements in local water quality. It also stressed that the new infrastructure does not replace South West Water’s wider obligations under the Water Industry National Environment Programme, including planned upgrades at Maer Lane sewage treatment works.
