AN 'action plan' to tackle future storm sewage discharge problem has been backed by the region's MP.

Tynedale MP Guy Opperman saidthe number of discharges from storm overflows was 'unacceptable' and has decided to back an 'action plan' to do something about it.

Storm overflows are safety valves built into the combined sewer system to discharge excess sewage to rivers, lakes, or the sea when rainfall exceeds capacity.

This protects properties from flooding and prevents sewage from backing up into streets and homes during heavy storm events.

The Government recently announced its Storm Overflow Discharge Reduction Plan.

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Under the plan, water companies like Northumbrian Water will face strict limits on when they can use storm overflows and must completely eliminate the ecological harm any storm sewage discharges cause to the environment and significantly reduce discharges to protect the public health.

The plan comes after Mr Opperman supported the 2021 Environment Act through Parliament.

The Act seeks to protect homes and streets, and tackle discharges, including the requirement for greater transparency from water companies on their storm overflow data, meaning there are now more protections are in place than ever before.

It is hoped that this avoids the massive disruption of completely redigging all of the water runoff and sewage pipes around the country.

Responses from the Plan’s consultation will be published by September 1.

“I am very aware and concerned by the environmental impact of storm overflow discharge in our local rivers and the sea," Guy Opperman MP said:

"A growing population, Victorian infrastructure, and an increase in extreme weather events have increased pressure on our system, bringing the frequency of discharges to an unacceptable level.

"I welcome the plan to tackle this issue head-on by ensuring water companies are held to account, by setting specific targets to ensure that storm overflows are only used in exceptional circumstances. I am meeting Northumbria Water and their local employees again next week to see the investment they are making in our local water network.

"I will continue to work to ensure that our rivers locally are kept clean and safe”.