In 2024, it was revealed United Utilities had repeatedly discharged millions of litres of raw sewage illegally into Lake Windermere over a three-year period. Environment Secretary Steve Reed has pledged that he will work toward a future where “only rainwater” enters England’s largest lake. The announcement comes as Reed and water minister Emma Hardy embark on a seven-stop ‘Things Can Only Get Cleaner’ tour of areas that are set to benefit from government investment, with Windermere – which lies within the Lake District National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site – being the first stop.

Photo by Antoni Brodzik

Reed said the government would work with the water company, local authorities in Cumbria and environmental groups to draft a feasibility study to eliminate all discharges into the lake, stating it was “wholly unacceptable that this lake was allowed to be contaminated with so much pollution – more than 140 million litres”. The study will draw on successful examples and innovation from around the world to create a roadmap for delivery.

Local conservationist Matt Staniek, of the Save Windermere campaign, described the government’s pledge as a “historic moment” and the “biggest breakthrough yet” for local campaigners, however was quick to emphasise “this is not the end”.