Llanbrynmair CSO ranked "Worst in Wales’ for sewage spills.

Llanbrynmair Central Sewer Overflow (CSO) has earned itself the dubious title of "Worst in Wales" for sewage discharges. The CSO has discharged for a shocking total duration of 8 months and 10 days over the last 12 months. These alarming stats highlight the need for immediate action to address environmental concerns and safeguard public health.

North Wales Rivers Trust CEO Laura Owen Sanderson says ‘ This is the third year in a row Llanbrynymair sewer storm overflow has either topped the list or come in at a close second. This is appalling news for the Dyfi - Once teeming with celtic sea trout’. ’ We are calling for NRW to take action to ensure Dwr Cymru take swift and decisive action to mitigate the impact of discharges and uphold environmental stewardship.’

Many of the sewer pipes in Wales are combined sewers. This means that they combine both raw sewage and waste water and combine this with rainwater from roads, gardens, and roofs. Although sewers are no longer built in this way, it’s estimated that about 60% of housing in Wales still use combined sewers.

Sewer overflows contain raw sewage, which poses significant risks to river health. Raw sewage carries pathogens and pollutants that can harm aquatic ecosystems, contaminate drinking water sources, and endanger public health. The prolonged duration of Llanbrynymair CSO discharges exacerbates these risks and underscores the urgent need for remedial action.’

You can take action by writing to your local representatives using the tools and templates from The Rivers Trust.