Clean Mersey tour Liverpool WwTW

Representatives from local action groups involved in campaigning for better river and coastal water quality, met at Liverpool Wastewater Treatment Works, Sandon Dock for a tour of the facilities. Ian Clayton and Hil Hart, from Clean Mersey, are involved in applying for Designated Bathing Water Status for New Brighton beach. Hil leads Wirral Ice Swimmers, Ian being part of the Friends Of New Brighton Marine Lake. Manisha Pandya from the New Brighteners is also involved in plastic surveys for Mersey Rivers Trust.

Mark Booth, United Utilities Area Engagement Lead for Merseyside arranged the visit which was led by Rebecca O’Conner, Site Production Manager (pictured).

Mark said, ‘‘As part of our ‘Better Rivers: Better Northwest’ plan, we have committed to play our part in creating and promoting additional bathing waters in our rivers and seas. As such, we support, engage and work with organisations such as Clean Mersey for communities to enjoy their local rivers.

“United Utilities is part of the fabric of local communities, and we are meeting regularly with Clean Mersey to listen to their concerns and answer questions.”

Ian Clayton said: “New Brighton beach is susceptible to most of the upstream pollution that occurs, from any source. Recent marine life studies have shown that the Mersey is in a better state than it was 20 years ago however without Designated Bathing Water Status there is no protection under legislation for human life. Achieving this status is our priority, to ensure that bathing water monitoring and continuous improvement is a focus - for the benefit of all.”