Concerns raised over significant increase in sewage discharge in River Chess Association data

The River Chess Association has raised concerns over a significant increase in sewage discharge into the river, with data showing a staggering 2,681 hours of discharge recorded in 2024 compared to just 19 hours the previous year. Chair Paul Jennings described it as a “miserable year” for the river, highlighting the detrimental impact on the ecosystem.

The prolonged sewage discharges have led to the river bed being coated with sewage fungus, affecting the breeding success of fish and altering the chemical composition of the water. The association is calling on Thames Water to take action to address the issue, emphasizing the need for repairs and improvements to the sewer system to prevent further pollution.

Thames Water has responded by increasing the operational capacity of the Chesham Sewage Treatment Works by 40%, but Mr. Jennings insists that more drastic measures are needed to eliminate sewage discharges completely. He estimates that a 600% increase in operating capacity is necessary to effectively tackle the problem.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Thames Water acknowledged the issue and outlined plans to upgrade sites across the region to reduce storm discharges. They emphasized the importance of collaboration with other stakeholders, such as farmers, industries, and local communities, to ensure the health and sustainability of the river.

Transparency is key for Thames Water, as they have made real-time data on sewage discharges available on their website, demonstrating their commitment to addressing the issue. Despite the challenges, both the River Chess Association and Thames Water are working towards a solution to protect the river and its ecosystem for future generations.