Concern over new sewage works

A MP has warned Southern Water to consult environmental protection groups before deciding where to build a new sewage works to replace Portobello.

Since its appeal to extend its treatment works at Portobello in Telscombe Cliffs was rejected by Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott last year Southern Water has found itself with the dilemma and cost of finding a new location.

And now the water company has come under fire from Peacehaven and Telscombe Labour MP Des Turner who claims it has not consulted wildly enough in its quest for a new site.

He said: 'With a national park for the South Downs around the corner it seems incredible that Southern Water is apparently failing to talk to either the South Downs Conservation Board (SDCB) or the Countryside Agency about where they are considering siting a new sewage works.

'I would be very surprised if they could come up with an acceptable green field site, but they are not currently ruling one out. If they are considering going down that route again then as a first step they really ought to be talking to the organisations who have an expert understanding of our precious local environment the fact that they aren t causes me great concern. I will be keeping a close eye on any possible proposal that they put forward.

Southern Water spent three years and 3.5 million examining sites before settling on the Portobello site in Telscombe Cliffs. The main reasons given for the rejection of its plans were that it would seriously harm the character and appearance of a coastal strip designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI).

Wherever it chooses next it is likely to face fierce opposition. Newhaven Eastside and North Quay have both been earmarked since the start of its search.

But although Newhaven was its first choice last time round the water company claims it was steered away from Newhaven in favour of Portobello by East Sussex County Council.

A Southern Water spokeswoman said it had yet to begin consultation for a new site. And when that began it would be East Sussex County Council s job to consult the SDCB and Countryside Agency she added.

In the meantime Southern Water has formed a consultative group with the county council, Brighton and Hove Council and Lewes District Council.

The spokeswoman said: 'We are literally back to square one. A project team has been set up and we are in the initial stages of looking around for a new site in the area, but it is in the very early stages.

However, she added: 'This time next year we should have a site in mind.