Dozens of water pollution incidents have not been dealt with immediately in Bolton over recent years. Findings revealed under the Freedom of Information Act showed that of the 93 water pollution incidents in Bolton between 2018 and 2023, just 19 were seen to straight away. One of the 74 incidents not seen to by Environment Agency immediately, one was classed as a “category one incident”, the most serious kind.
Bolton West MP Phil Brickell said: “These stark statistics lay bare the dire legacy of the Tory government on protection of our rivers and waterways. “Throughout the Tories time in office they underfunded the Environment Agency, did not provide them with any teeth to take the robust action needed and allowed water companies to continue paying ridiculous bonuses. Mr Brickell says he wants to see regulators granted greater powers (Image: Office of Phil Brickell MP) “The Labour Government is beginning to change things with measures outlined in the Kings Speech with The Water (Special Measures) Bill.
“This will put water companies responsible for pollution under tough special measures. “The bosses of these companies will face personal criminal liability for persistent lawbreaking, and we will withhold bonuses if the company has broken the law.” He added: “Water companies won’t be able to mark their own homework, we will require independent monitoring of all sewage outlets.
“Regulators will be able to bring robust charges against water companies and exe.
