South West Water pollution - Oliver's story

Oliver Bainbridge runs a bar and a brewery in the town centre and has found himself affected by reduced tourism. Oliver says footfall in his bar has been markedly down, and local businesses he supplies have reduced their orders from his brewery.    

Oliver is also concerned about the long-term damage to Exmouth as a town and destination. He fears that the impact of sewage pollution will change behaviour in years to come and may permanently put people off Exmouth as a destination. He has already had people cancel bookings at his bar, citing the sewage pollution problems.    

Oliver said:  

"Running a bar and brewery in Exmouth, swells and dips in tourism have a direct impact on my business. In the past few years, footfall has been down, and people have cited sewage pollution as a reason for cancelling bookings at my bar. Other businesses appear to have suffered as well, with some establishments supplied by my brewery are also experiencing reduced numbers.  

"I feel that the town is experiencing long-term reputational damage due to its association with sewage pollution - a reputation that could take years to shake."