Save Windermere Launches New Campaign for Non-Mains Drains. United Utilities and the government have ignored existing legislation that allows non-mains properties to connect to the public sewer system—leaving Windermere at risk. Our latest campaign provides a step-by-step guide for residents and businesses to take action, while we push for an amendment to the Ministerial Code to ensure environmental concerns come first.

We’re thrilled to announce that Matt Staniek has been named one of Big Issue’s Top 100 Changemakers of 2025! Recognised for his tireless dedication to protecting Windermere, Matt’s efforts led to a historic £190 million investment in England’s largest lake. This recognition celebrates not only Matt, but the entire campaign striving to end sewage pollution and secure Windermere’s future.

Save Windermere and WASP introduced non-toxic fluorescein dye into Cunsey Beck to investigate flaws in the Environment Agency's water-quality monitoring. Our findings revealed that the EA’s poorly positioned Sondes monitor may be failing to detect sewage spills from the main pollution source, raising serious concerns about its effectiveness.

Save Windermere secures a major victory as United Utilities withdraws their appeal, releasing crucial environmental data after years of campaigning. Discover how relentless advocacy led to greater transparency for England’s largest lake.

The following report outlines the findings of our extensive investigation into Far Sawrey WwTW. Save Windermere asserts that the site is fundamentally not fit for purpose with several operational and maintenance issues exposed. We have also quantified the substantial, chronic adverse impact that the site is having on the freshwater ecology of Wilfin Beck.

From exposing illegal spills to securing £200M investment—thank you for making 2024 one of our most impactful years yet. Let’s make 2025 the year we secure Windermere’s future!

Over 500 days with illegal sewage discharges have been exposed in Windermere, as United Utilities’ untreated spills go unchecked. This blog delves into the shocking data, the regulatory failures, and Save Windermere’s call for accountability to protect England’s largest lake.

Our latest investigation exposes the shocking illegal dumping of over 140 million litres of sewage into Windermere by United Utilities. Read on to see the full analysis reported by the BBC and what actions we're demanding to protect our lake.

The time has come for bold action to fix our broken water industry. Our report, co-authored with Professor Ewan McGaughey, calls on the government to place failing water companies into Special Administration. Supported by a coalition of leading experts and campaign groups, we outline how this legal tool can end illegal sewage discharges, cancel unmanageable debt, and prioritise environmental protection over shareholder profits.

United Utilities proposes a £150 million investment in Windermere following the Save Windermere campaign's efforts. But is this enough to solve decades of sewage pollution and underinvestment? Read our response to UU's latest move and why we're pushing for a real, long-term solution to protect Windermere.

We are thrilled to announce that our very own Matt Staniek has won the prestigious 2024 Tenacious Awards, recognising his relentless dedication to preserving Windermere and its natural beauty.

The Lake District National Park Authority is reviewing a planning application that could significantly impact the health of Windermere. This application proposes increasing the sewage load directed to a decommissioned wastewater treatment plant, despite the existing cesspit's history of overflow problems. We need your help to hold the LDNPA accountable.