Our sewer system is increasingly under pressure from the effects of climate change and greater urbanisation. Storm overflows are used during heavy or prolonged rainfall when the network becomes overwhelmed. When this occurs, excess water is released into rivers and the sea, to prevent homes, businesses, schools, and roads flooding.
Our customers want to us to build a sustainable system fit for the future. That is why we’ve set up a dedicated task force to significantly reduce storm overflows by 2030. We're already working hard towards our target, delivering in six ‘pathfinder’ areas, building a regional plan, and working with partners to manage catchment flow.
Below you'll find information about what storm overflows are, what we're doing to tackle their use, about our pathfinder projects and how you can get involved.
Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force
Discover how our Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force aims to significantly reduce storm overflows.