13,000 sign petition as 'right to swim' legal challenge wins backing
A not-for-profit campaign group is now backing a Devon swimmer's bid to try and take South West Water to court
The Devon swimmer trying to take South West Water to court says she's feeling much more positive about her chances of winning after securing backing from not-for-profit campaign group The Good Law project.
Jo Bateman is trying to claim around £400 in compensation for times when pollution stopped her swimming.
The 62 year old says getting extra help is a real boost, adding: "I never expected to win my case, it was never about the money and with all the publicity I have had in my mind I see that as I've won already.
"Now that I have Leigh Day and the Good Law project no side I feel like I really have a genuine chance."
Almost 13,000 people have now signed a petition supporting Jo's campaign and her 'right to swim'
Jo added: "I'm still receiving loads of positive support from people all over social media. I get recognised sometimes it is inviably people saying thank you, we're so grateful that you're doing what you're doing - keep fighting."
The full statement from the Good Law Project about why they are supporting Jo can be found here
In response, South West Water say it cares 'deeply about the quality of our region’s bathing waters' and is investing a record £850 million in 2023-24 - 'with a priority on reducing overflows at more than 150 bathing and shellfish waters'. The say that includes in Exmouth which will get '£38 million to maintain its ‘excellent’ water quality status between now and 2030.
John Halsall, Chief Operating Officer at South West Water, added: “Like all our customers, including Ms Bateman, we care deeply about the quality of our region’s bathing waters. It’s always upsetting if anyone feels they can’t enjoy the beach when they want to.
“Almost all bathing waters in the South West have a ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ water quality status, which is determined by the Environment Agency, and are enjoyed by millions all year round. Exmouth beach has maintained an ‘excellent’ bathing water quality status since 2016.
“Our customers rightly want us to reduce the use of storm overflows which are an essential pressure release valve that prevents flooding to homes and businesses. We have a plan and it is working, but we know there is more to do. This is our top priority.”