Press & Media
Far Sawrey WwTW Site Review and Ecological Damage on Wilfin Beck
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.
2024 Highlights: A Landmark Year for Saving Windermere
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!
True Extent of United Utilities’ Illegal Sewage Discharges in Windermere Exposed
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.
Over 140 million litres of sewage illegally dumped into Windermere
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.
Time to End the Sewage Scandal: Why Special Administration is the Solution
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' Latest "Proposal" for Windermere: A Step in the Right Direction, But Let's Not Get Too Excited
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.
Staniek Wins 2024 Tenacious Award
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.
Is the Lake District National Park Authority ignoring a new sewage threat to Windermere?
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.
Are you paying twice for sewage spilling?
We are on a ship, heading towards an iceberg, and the captain and crew have no interest in changing course. This is the trajectory that Steve Reed, OFWAT, and DEFRA are on, despite the public's overwhelming desire to overhaul England’s failing water industry.
June 2024 Blue Green Algae samples exceeded WHO limits for recreational use of Windermere
As part of our ongoing scientific monitoring of Windermere, we undertook sampling of a localised but extensive algal bloom at Waterhead on 25th June 2024. The cyanobacteria concentrations exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) limits for recreational use of the lake.
Save Windermere March Draws 1,000 Supporters and Celebrities, Calling for Greater Protection Ahead of Election
On Saturday, 29th June, over 1,000 passionate supporters gathered in Windermere for the Save Windermere March, demanding greater protection for England’s largest lake. The event saw an incredible turnout, with local residents, environmental activists, and notable celebrities coming together in a unified call to action.
Save Windermere launches statutory nuisance complaint against United Utilities sewage discharging
Save Windermere, working with environmental barrister Nicholas Ostrowski, is demanding that Westmorland and Furness Council immediately investigate a statutory nuisance complaint made by the campaigning group.