Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) Lead Hundreds in Seabrook Protest Against Sewage Pollution

Words and pictures by Ray Duff,

Hundreds of protesters, organized by Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), gathered near the Seapoint Canoe Centre in Seabrook on Sunday 25 May to voice their strong opposition to the ongoing discharge of sewage into the sea by water companies.

SAS members welcomed the large turnout of all ages, emphasizing the detrimental impact of the pollution on coastal towns and villages. They highlighted the frequent restrictions and bans on bathing due to poor water quality, noting that the demonstration occurred just days after another reported discharge in the area.

Local MP Tony Vaughan speaks out on the issue Photo: Ray Duff

Dave Jacobs, representing the newly formed Dymchurch Dippers group, echoed these concerns. He spoke of the difficulties in engaging with the relevant water companies and agencies, stating that despite contact with Southern Water and the Environment Agency (EA), more decisive action is needed. Mr. Jacobs criticized the EA’s use of what he described as an “outdated algorithm” for monitoring discharges, questioning why a more dynamic and accurate system was not being implemented.

Some of the  organisers of Triennial ‘Ministry’ event. Photo: Ray Duff

Local Member of Parliament, Tony Vaughan, who has long campaigned on this issue, addressed the crowd. He stated that while the public rhetoric from various bodies might sound promising, the reality on the ground remains unsatisfactory. Mr. Vaughan affirmed his commitment to working across party lines to address the problem, seeking better accountability from water companies and exploring ways to reduce both discharges and household bills.

He revealed that some agencies had complained about his persistent questioning and expressed his disappointment that while other regions were seeing improvements, Folkestone and its coastline were currently not prioritized for such schemes, something he pledged to advocate for.

Mr Vaughan also announced an upcoming meeting of a Steering Group on the issue at the District Council offices on Friday, June 13th, to which the Environment Agency and Southern Water have been invited to discuss urgent action.