Public Consultation Now Open for Exmouth’s Long Sea Outfall Project

South West Water has submitted a request to the Environment Agency seeking to amend its environmental permits to allow for the permanent use of a new outfall located approximately 300 metres south of Straight Point. This outfall is intended to discharge treated wastewater, and during periods of heavy rainfall, it may also release settled storm sewage.

The Environment Agency has provisionally authorised the outfall’s operation under conditional temporary permission, as it is believed to mitigate the pollution risk to the bathing waters at Exmouth Beach and the Exe Estuary. However, for South West Water to utilise the outfall on a permanent basis, it is essential to alter its environmental permits.

Consultation Process Underway

The variations to the environmental permits are currently open for public consultation. South West Water is required to demonstrate that its proposals adhere to environmental standards, align with the policies set forth by the Environment Agency, and safeguard both human health and wildlife, including designated sites such as shellfish waters, bathing waters, and conservation areas.

How to Make Your Voice Heard

Members of the public are invited to share their thoughts on this initiative through several channels. Comments can be submitted via the consultation website or by emailing PSCpublicresponse@environment-agency.gov.uk. The consultation period will conclude at 11.59pm on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.

For assistance on how to provide feedback, or if you are unable to submit your comments via email, please contact the helpline at 03708 506 506.

It is important to note that the Environment Agency typically publishes any comments it receives on a public register. While your name will be included, personal contact details will remain confidential. Please specify if you prefer that your response not be made public.