"Water Firms Face Swift £20K Fines for Sewage Spills Under New Rules"

New proposals will impose up to £20,000 fines on the water industry for frequent sewage spills, addressing previously unpunished pollution incidents and enhancing accountability.

• The new rules require the water industry to report significant pollution incidents within four hours or face automatic penalties of up to £20,000.
• Fines will also be applied for improper data reporting or if emergency overflow outlets discharge sewage more than three times annually, targeting frequent offences.
• The Environment Agency will have enhanced powers to enforce these penalties, making it easier to address serious offences and shift the burden of proof in enforcement.