WELSH Water have announced plans for investment in the River Dee's storm and sewage overflow systems at a meeting of the newly formed River Dee Assembly.

Convened by the City of Chester MP, Samantha Dixon, the second meeting of the assembly took place on Friday, July 14, at the University of Chester's Handbridge complex, overlooking the River.

Following the first meeting held in March, local environmentalists, residents and local groups came together to discuss the action needed to stop sewage dumping in the River Dee.

The assembly was attended by representatives from Welsh Water, Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Chester Zoo, local residents and the University of Chester. Members from local rowing and kayaking clubs were also present.

Ms Dixon opened the Assembly with an update on her work championing the River Dee in Parliament and raising the issue of sewage dumping. Most notably she referred to her first Prime Minister’s Question address sewage dumping, with the Prime Minister agreeing the current practice is unacceptable.

Other speakers included local industry expert and historian Tim Ackerley on the history of the River Dee, Steve Hughes on community Sustainable Urban Drainage schemes, and Cheshire West and Chester Council on Bathing Water Status.

Representatives from Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water) presented plans for improving the capacity for storm flow storage and next year’s launch of a near-real-time sewage overflow dashboard.

Ms Dixon commented: "The River Dee is one of Chester’s greatest assets. The continued dumping of sewage into our river is damaging for the people using the river, the businesses located along the river, and the wildlife that call the river home.

"It’s inspiring to see so many groups across Chester coming together with a shared passion. People recognise the importance of the river for Chester’s heritage and future.

"Today’s discussions tackle the sewage crisis at a national level and a local community level. We are seeing action from the people of Chester. It’s time the Government stepped up its game."