A WATER company has responded after reports revealed that it had been pumping raw sewage into a river.

Residents near to the Basingstoke sewage treatment works (STW), in Whitmarsh Lane, Chineham, noticed that Thames Water had been pumping raw sewage into the River Loddon on Friday, March 29.

At that point, the sewage had been pumping into the river for almost 60 hours. It is unconfirmed whether the sewage is still being pumped into the river.

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A Thames Water spokesperson said: “Taking action to improve the health of rivers is a key focus for us and we want to lead the way with our transparent approach to data. 

"We’re the first company to provide live alerts for all untreated discharges throughout our region and this ‘near real-time’ data is available to customers as a map on our website and is also available through an open data platform for third parties, such as swimming and environmental groups, to use.

“Of course, what matters most is stopping the need for the discharges and we have published plans to upgrade over 250 of our sewage treatment works and sewers.

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"An upgrade is planned for Basingstoke STW. This will improve its ability to treat the volumes of incoming sewage, reducing the need for untreated discharges in wet weather.

"The scheme, which is still being designed, is due to be completed in 2027. We're also investigating the impact of groundwater on the sewer network in this area. This will help inform our long-term planning.”

Maria Miller MP has been contacted for comment.