4 March 2026 – Prosecution of South West Water Limited for s70(1) offences under the Water Industry Act 1991
The Drinking Water Inspectorate (the Inspectorate) notes the guilty plea that South West Water Limited has entered following the court hearing today at Exeter Magistrates’ Court in relation to the Cryptosporidiosis outbreak event in the Brixham area in 2024 for potential offences under section 70(1) of the Water Industry Act 1991.
The event concerned the detection of Cryptosporidium in the drinking water supply in the Brixham area in May 2024.
The sentencing hearing is now listed on 2 June 2026 before Exeter Magistrates’ Court.
Marcus Rink, Chief Inspector of the Drinking Water Inspectorate, has stated:
“The company’s decision to plead guilty to the offences relating to the Brixham incident reflects the seriousness of the failings identified during our investigation.”
“As sentencing is a matter for the court, it would not be appropriate to comment further on the specific circumstances of the case at this stage.”
“While such incidents are very rare, this incident had a significant impact on the public and the wider community. The court will now decide what the outcome of the failing should be.”
Background briefing:
- Due to criminal proceedings ongoing, the Inspectorate will not be able to make any further comment or share any information which could prejudice these proceedings.