The odour has been a long-standing issue, with complaints dating back to at least 2002, according to multiple reports. On April 21, the Safer Seas and River Service app flagged a spill at the Plymouth Central STW sewage overflow, which has recorded 117 events so far this year. MP Luke Pollard said he received numerous complaints about the smell, particularly between April 22 and April 26, when the stench was described as 'unbearable'.
He stated that he has written to South West Water demanding immediate action, calling it unacceptable that residents are being forced to endure the odour. South West Water acknowledged the concerns but said it has not identified any significant odour issues during inspections. The exact source of the smell and its link to the sewage overflow remain uncertain.
I have written to the company (South West Water) demanding immediate action. Many locals have shared incredibly unpleasant experiences, and it is frankly unacceptable that they are being forced to endure this.
I have now written directly to South West Water to ask them to fix these issues once and for all. I will continue to press South West Water to address this matter and to put things right for people who live near the site.