Local MP Alan Mak recently chaired a meeting of regional MPs, councillors and community representatives where he pushed Southern Water’s new CEO Lawrence Gosden to improve the operation of their Beachbuoy water monitoring system.
Beachbuoy combines data from monitoring stations along the South Coast with computer modelling to create a real time picture of how discharges are affecting our harbours. This information is then made accessible online, enabling the public to understand and judge the risks posed by stormwater discharges.
After concerns were raised over how Beachbuoy is working, Southern Water have now committed to introducing new and enhanced computer analysis, as well as improved reporting on discharges. They have also agreed to subject their new system to independent review and scrutiny from a world expert on water quality, and have proposed Prof David Kay of Aberystwyth University.
Additionally, Southern Water have pledged to make Beachbuoy easier to use on mobile phones, so the public can check water quality on the go.
Alan Mak MP said, “I am pleased Southern Water are taking my concerns and those of other campaigners seriously, as well as standing by their commitment to engage with local people. Of course, tracking discharges is important but our ultimate goal is to end them. I will continue to campaign hard on this issue on behalf of local residents.”
