Environment Agency launches major investigation into sewage

EA and Ofwat begin inquiry after water companies admit possible illegal discharges into rivers

Water companies are at the centre of a major investigation by the financial and environmental watchdogs after they admitted they may have illegally released untreated sewage into rivers and waterways.

The Environment Agency and Ofwat said they had begun an investigation into sewage treatment works, after new checks led to the admission from the water companies.