Sewage contamination is one of the most significant hazards during flooding in Mudford. One of the group’s major concerns is the overflow of untreated sewage from the local pumping station operated by Wessex Water. When floodwaters rise, the pumping station at Mudford struggles to handle the volume, leading to sewage overflows that contaminate floodwaters. This creates severe health risks, including exposure to harmful bacteria and pollutants.
Contaminated floodwaters pose risks to anyone coming into contact with them, especially children and pets. In addition, they can damage agricultural land, lead to long-term soil contamination, and negatively impact the local environment, including the nearby River Yeo and beyond.

Community Action: Monitoring Sewage Overflows
To combat the ongoing issue of sewage contamination, members of The Three Villages Flood Group have taken matters into their own hands by closely monitoring and recording sewage overflows from the pumping station. Regular data collection and reporting to Wessex Water are vital steps in holding the utility company accountable and ensuring that effective long-term solutions are implemented.

The group is advocating for improved sewage management infrastructure, such as increasing pumping capacity, installing flood barriers, and upgrading drainage systems to reduce the risk of overflows during storms.
Mudford Sewage report