South West Water admits criminal offence over Devon parasite outbreak | Water industry
A major utility company has admitted supplying water unfit for human consumption following a parasite outbreak that sickened more than 100 people in and around a seaside town.
South West Water (SWW) has pleaded guilty to an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis affecting 2,500 homes in Brixham, Devon.
Almost 150 cases of the disease were confirmed in spring 2024; some people required hospital treatment, and many residents claim the effects of the outbreak are still being felt.
During an hour-long hearing at Exeter magistrates’ court, the company pleaded guilty under the Water Industry Act 1991. The company will be sentenced in June and face fines of hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Joe Millington, representing the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which brought the case, said it was an “extremely high-profile” incident. He said: “This affected a significant number of people over a wide geographical area and had a negative impact on public confidence in the water supply. The effects were felt for a long time. There were local disturbances, economic impacts and impacts on education.”
The outbreak was traced to a water tank in a reservoir, but the court was told there remained a question as to exactly how it happened.
Residents who spoke after he confessed to the crime claimed some people were still suffering from health problems for almost two years. Jen Watts said her 10-year-old son developed avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder after getting sick during the outbreak. He spent four days in the hospital, and Watts said he was still struggling with his health.
He said: “I am relieved they have pleaded guilty. I hope the penalties are strong and severe and send a very clear message to all water companies that this is not acceptable or tolerated and that they take into account the devastating and ongoing harm this is causing to innocent people like my son and others.”
Lisa Horswill said she continues to experience pain and swelling, which she believes is related to the pandemic. “I’m still in pain,” he said.
Tanya Mitchell, another resident, said: “When I turn on the tap I check to see if there is any smell or how cloudy the air is.”
Law firm Irwin Mitchell said it represented a group of people affected, aged 8 to 60. Jatinder Paul, the firm’s public health attorney, said: “Cryptosporidium can have devastating and long-lasting consequences for the most vulnerable in society, such as the elderly and children.
“Two years after the outbreak, the people we represent continue to be greatly affected. Some have experienced conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, and others are still experiencing the psychological impact.”
UK Water Minister Emma Hardy said water pollution was rare but completely unacceptable. He said: “Communities affected by this disgusting incident in Brixham deserve answers and today’s criminal complaint is a crucial step towards accountability.”
South Devon Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden said: “This admission of guilt has been a long time coming. I’m glad he has acknowledged the serious failings of SWW. This terrible incident should never have happened.”
Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that can cause cryptosporidiosis, an unpleasant and sometimes dangerous disease. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, nausea, fever and loss of appetite.
SWW said: “We would like to reiterate our full and unreserved apologies for the impact of the incident on the Brixham area. We have co-operated fully with the Drinking Water Inspectorate throughout the investigations. Today is another phase of this legal process which we will continue to support.”
