Meeting held to discuss ways to boost water quality in River Deben
Government ministers met with community members, farmers and Anglian Water in Woodbridge yesterday.
A summit involving local farmers, community groups and MPs has taken place in Woodbridge looking at ways to boost water quality in the River Deben.
It's amid concerns about pollution and sewage spilling into the waterway.
There's also been discussions about setting up dedicated bathing sites along the river.
It comes as Anglian Water is being taken to court over allegations its under-reporting sewage leaks, something the firm denies.
Suffolk Coastal MP and Environment Minister Therese Coffey was involved in yesterday's summit, along with local farmers, community members and representatives of Anglian Water.
Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said: “As someone who enjoys spending time by the River Deben, I share the passion for protecting and enhancing its waters shown by our partners today.
“One of the key parts of our Plan for Water is tailored long-term catchment plans with new funding for catchment groups. For this to succeed collaboration at a local level is vital so we can all work towards improving the water system together.”
Water Minister Rebecca Pow said: “It is clear the River Deben is a precious habitat for many in the community but it is under pressure.
“River water quality must improve and our new Plan for Water sets out how increased investment, tougher enforcement and tighter regulation is helping tackle every source of river pollution.
“At the Deben, I look forward to seeing greater collaboration from all parties locally as this is also vital if water quality is to improve.”