Sandown Town Council has unanimously declared no confidence in Southern Water over sewage discharges, declining bathing water quality, persistent odour complaints and concerns surrounding plans for a new wastewater recycling plant.
The decision was made on Monday (26th October), following requests from residents, with councillors agreeing that Southern Water must take meaningful action to restore public trust.
Councillor Paddy Lightfoot outlined 3 main areas of concern – pollution and water quality, unpleasant smells from the existing treatment works and the proposed wastewater recycling plant.
According to figures highlighted by the Town Council, Southern Water discharged storm overflow from its 2 Sandown sea outfall pipes for almost 1,621 hours during 2025, equivalent to an average of 4.4 hours a day.
The Council also cited figures showing 4,081 hours of discharges in 2024, with Southern Water attributing variations to weather conditions.
Sandown’s bathing water classification has also dropped from Excellent to Good, raising concerns about future water quality, Blue Flag eligibility and the town’s reputation as a seaside destination.
Councillors noted that official bathing water monitoring only takes place between 15th May and the end of September, despite year-round sea use. The Council says it has received frequent reports of people avoiding swimming over water quality concerns.
Persistent unpleasant smells from Southern Water’s existing treatment works were another major issue raised.
Although Southern Water has previously attributed odour problems to hot weather, residents have reported smells occurring in various conditions.
Councillors also questioned equipment failures and operational procedures, amid concerns that some reported equipment issues may have remained unresolved for approximately 3 years.
Members expressed frustration at the apparent lack of a robust plan to permanently address the problem, which continues to affect residents, visitors and businesses.
The Council also reaffirmed its objections to Southern Water’s proposed wastewater recycling plant, saying ongoing problems at the existing facility raised further questions about how a new plant would operate.
Following the discussion, councillors unanimously supported a formal motion stating:
“That as of 26th October 2026, Sandown Town Council has no confidence in Southern Water’s management of its current and proposed operations in Sandown, or in its response to community concerns.”
However, councillors agreed that measurable improvements would be needed to rebuild confidence.
The Town Council is now requesting monthly written reports from Southern Water, beginning in November, covering storm overflow discharges, water quality, odour incidents and progress on the proposed wastewater recycling plant.
The reports will also address causes of odour problems, mitigation measures, community impacts and any significant changes to the proposed development.
Southern Water has confirmed that it is happy to provide the requested reports.
The Council will review progress after 3 months and reconsider its no-confidence resolution within 6 months, or sooner if substantial improvements are made.
Councillors say restoring confidence will depend on improved communication, greater transparency, delivery of commitments and sustained improvements for residents, businesses and the environment.
