Image description: Rain drops falling into a shallow pool of water. Photo by reza shayestehpour on Unsplash

Despite the South West region experiencing rainfall 62% higher than the national average in 2025, South West Water (SWW) has announced a 17% reduction  in storm overflow use and a 25% in cut spill duration over the past year.

SWW said almost half (47%) of all spills occurred during the final three months of the year, when the region experienced sustained periods of heavy rain. They say they prevented more than 8,300 spills through targeted investment and operational improvements.

South West Water credits the improvements to its 15-year turnaround plan, which is supported by approximately £760 million of investment through to 2030.

The company says it has achieved full monitoring coverage across its overflow network, allowing for more accurate and transparent reporting.

In 2024 South West Water was one of only five companies in the sector to reduce storm overflows.

Richard Price, managing director of wastewater services at South West Water, said: “There is more to do, but the direction of travel is clear: fewer spills, shorter duration, and focused investment where it matters most.”

The company says it plans to continue focusing investment in areas with the greatest environmental need and says the latest data shows structural improvements are delivering results even during sustained wet weather conditions.