A crackdown on waste disposal in the sewers has led to a Southall firm called Ivo Textiles being prosecuted by Thames Water. The firm, located on Trident Way, was found to have breached its industrial waste agreement over a period of four years. Thames Water discovered that items such as ammonia and heavy metals were jeopardizing the final treated effluent from the company.
In an effort to address the issue, Thames Water took samples in both 2021 and 2022, which confirmed that Ivo Textiles was indeed committing sewer abuse. Despite efforts to work with the company and encourage compliance with waste disposal regulations, Ivo continued to exceed the allowable levels, ultimately leading to legal action being taken against them.
As a result of the prosecution, Ivo Textiles was fined over £71,000, with a significant portion of the fine going towards covering legal costs incurred by Thames Water. Daniel Bourne, Thames Water’s trade effluent manager, emphasized the importance of controlling waste water from industrial premises to ensure the proper functioning of the sewer network and the protection of the environment.
Bourne stated that sewer abuse presents a significant challenge in maintaining the flow of sewers and treating customers’ wastewater. In the 2023/24 period, 81% of blockages in Thames Water’s network were attributed to items that should never have been disposed of in the sewers. The company removes a staggering 75,000 blockages from its sewers annually, at a cost of £18 million.
Thames Water’s efforts to identify and address instances of sewer abuse are crucial in safeguarding the sewer network and preventing harm to the environment. While the company aims to work collaboratively with individuals and businesses to educate them on the impacts of sewer abuse, legal action will be taken as a last resort in cases where the risk is deemed too high.
In conclusion, the case of Ivo Textiles serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible waste disposal practices in industrial settings. By adhering to regulations and working in partnership with water authorities, businesses can play a vital role in preserving the integrity of the sewer system and protecting the environment for future generations.
