River Wriggle – Water Quality Update

Recent water testing of a tributary feeding into the River Wriggle has shown elevated phosphate levels, indicating ongoing nutrient pollution within the catchment.

Encouragingly, E. coli test results have returned negative, likely reflecting the absence of recorded Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) discharges since 13th March.

However, the overall condition of the river remains concerning. During today’s inspection:
The water remained visibly cloudy, with areas of foam and surface scum present at several locations. There was no visible fish or aquatic life, suggesting continued ecological stress.

Further testing at a watercourse flowing into the Wriggle near Mill Lane identified high levels of both ammonia and phosphates. This has now been formally reported to the Environment Agency for investigation.

Additional sampling is planned this week at the Beer Hackett CSO, a key discharge point within the catchment.

I will also be meeting with Edward Morello later this week to discuss:
The community petition
The proposed pilot project at Brister End aimed at reducing rainwater entering the combined sewer system and lowering CSO discharges into the river

A further Pilot Project Update will follow tomorrow.

Paul Hollick
Wriggle Valley Community Campaign