Southern Water quizzed over failings

An initial meeting has taken place between the provider and local authorities.

Southern Water are being held to account to deliver infrastructure, the group was set up following issues including local flooding and issues dealing with new developments.

The Southern Water Local Authority Stakeholder Group includes representatives from more than 40 councils, co-ordinated by Wealden District Council.

Southern Water are responsible for waste water locally and also providing drinking water in other areas of the South East.

Leader of Wealden District Council, Councillor Ann Newton said, “It is not just Wealden council which is appalled and frustrated at the issues and concerns which lead back to Southern Water’s failings.

“All those at the inaugural meeting were united in their pledge to hold Southern Water to account and press for immediate action particularly in relation to upgrading and investing in the sewerage systems.

“We were able to explain what our planning officers have been doing on live application casework. All those attending were very interested in how officers have been able to persuade Southern Water to comment much earlier in the development process. Calling Southern Water to Overview and Scrutiny Committee is likely to be followed by partners in the group.

“Unfortunately we do not have the direct power to regulate Southern Water or require it to address its rather lengthy list of failings. But as local authorities working together, we can do our utmost to apply pressure to seek the required action needed to end this catalogue of failings.

“It was a very positive meeting and we have agreed to meet regularly moving forward.”