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The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretching from Ross-on-Wye to Chepstow, which provides equivalent status to the National Parks. It is an area of significant environmental importance, recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest with a focus on its biodiversity. A key feature of the river is that the lower part of the river is tidal, making it an important site for the spawning and movement of salmon - despite the collapse in numbers in recent years.

The importance of the River Wye running through the valley has also been recognised by a number of councils and organisations coming together to grant it a River Charter of Rights.

Despite all this, the condition of the Wye has been significantly impacted by sewage overflows running into the river system, as these spill out from an outdated and under-invested network. Full details of the impact of this is set out at www.eyesonthewye.co.uk and in 2025 this saw:

• 4,000+ hrs of sewage overflow in the Wye Valley AONB
• 1,200+ hrs of sewage overflow at Bigsweir
• 11 hrs per day of sewage overflow at Bigsweir in December 2025

After an investigation spanning several years, Ofwat found Welsh Water in breach of its responsibilities for managing the sewage system and issued a £40m penalty. In June 2026 it decided to allow Welsh Water to invest £45m in repairs rather than pay a fine and we are calling for Welsh Water to prioritise fixing the issues in the Wye Valley AONB as part of that investment.

In signing this petition we are asking Welsh Water to:

1. Engage with the local communities to discuss the issues
2. Share a plan to fix the overflows and clean up the Wye Valley National Landscape AONB
3. Commit to a clear timeline for implementation
4. Explore solutions to stop water foaming as it enters the river from the overflows
5. Provide transparency on all pipes entering the river 

The preservation of the River Wye is crucial for wildlife conservation and biodiversity in the river and essential for ensuring a healthy ecosystem for the future.  It is key for local communities along the river for our environmental integrity, local amenity and economic resource through tourism and recreation.  

Please sign this petition to demand that Welsh Water prioritises establishing a pollution free Wye Valley AONB, securing the environment for our communities and safeguarding our natural heritage for generations to come.