Raw sewage is reportedly surfacing on streets, according to a campaigner involved in Channel 4’s Dirty Business series, who criticized the Environment Agency. Ash Smith accused the agency of neglecting its duty, suggesting that grassroots activists are conducting the necessary waterway monitoring. The efforts of Ash and Prof Peter Hammond from Windrush Against Sewage Pollution to uncover the issue of untreated sewage discharge into rivers are showcased in Channel 4’s impactful three-part series.

The program also highlights the struggle of Julie Maughan, whose daughter Heather Preen contracted E.coli, along with numerous others, while visiting a Devon beach in 1999. Tragically, Heather passed away two weeks later, and her case remains central to the narrative, despite South West Water denying responsibility for her death.

Portrayed by David Thewlis and Jason Watkins in the series, Ash and Peter have spent a decade investigating the conduct of water companies with the assistance of whistleblowers. Speaking on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Ash expressed frustration over the lack of significant changes despite ongoing demands for action, emphasizing that water companies continue to pollute for extended periods with little repercussions from the Environment Agency.

Ash highlighted the presence of dangerous bacteria in untreated sewage, noting instances where it emerges in the street through manholes, posing a hazard to public health. Prof Hammond expressed hope that viewers would be motivated to take action after watching the drama, urging them to voice their concerns to politicians and advocate for increased government intervention in the water industry.

In response to the portrayal in the series, an Environment Agency spokesperson emphasized the organization’s commitment to addressing water pollution, citing increased resources and enforcement actions. The spokesperson outlined ongoing efforts, including a significant number of inspections and legal actions against water and sewerage companies to ensure compliance and deter future violations.