Official data still shows high human sewage levels in the River Lim

Extra monitoring by the Environment Agency in the River Lim throughout 2023 has shown high levels of human sewage even after light rain near the river mouth.

Official data still shows high human sewage levels in the River LimExtra monitoring by the Environment Agency in the River Lim throughout 2023 has shown high levels of human sewage even after light rain near the river mouth.

The River Lim Action group had requested extra monitoring and further tests which can identify the sources of bacteria (eg human, animal or bird).

“We were pleased that the Environment Agency carried out this extra monitoring so that we can understand what is causing the high bacterial levels and try to stop it happening”, said Vicki Elcoate of the River Lim Action group.“But it’s disappointing that levels are still high – typically over 80%. South West Water – which has been carrying out its own tests – and the Environment Agency have already met to discuss the problem and what to do about it. It’s complex with different sources of pollution including cows further up the catchment”.

The Environment Agency report says: “There were statistically significant increases in both E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci (I.E.) concentrations between the Woodmead Road and Lim at Beach sites. This confirms that there are persistent sources of contamination downstream of Woodmead Road (i.e. within Lyme Regis)”.

Read the May 2024 report