Tackling Pollution in Windermere: A Community Call to Action 

Background to the public meeting 

Sewage pollution is an issue that has received increasing scrutiny nationwide with only 15% of England’s rivers achieving ‘good’ ecological status. In Windermere, there are signs that this issue is reaching a decisive moment. Algal blooms are becoming increasingly common, and in August high concentrations of harmful bacteria were found across most of the lake. 

Sewage is high in the nutrient, phosphorus, which can cause the rapid growth of algae when discharged into water. These ‘algal blooms’ prevent sunlight from penetrating the water and strip it of oxygen, harming its entire ecology. Phosphorus can also cause the growth of blue-green algae, which can be harmful to both humans and animals. 

United Utilities is known to be the largest single source of phosphorus pollution in Windermere, responsible for roughly 40% of phosphorus pollution. In September United Utilities discharged untreated sewage continuously for eight days into Cunsey Beck, near Windermere. 

Details of the public meeting 

On Wednesday 26 November 2025 Leigh Day wants to hear from residents and businesses about the impact that sewage pollution is having on the community.

The purpose of the meeting will be to: 

• Introduce ourselves and the type of work we do at Leigh Day, including our work relating to sewage pollution
• Discuss the role that legal action could play in assisting those affected by the pollution; and 
• Hear from you about your experience of the pollution in Windermere and answer any questions you have. 

Where and when 

The meeting will be held on Wednesday 26 November 2025 at: 

📍The Marchesi Centre, Holly Road, Windermere, LA23 2AF. 

If you have any questions regarding the community meeting, please contact our team at windermerepollution@leighday.co.uk