As one of the UK’s most iconic surf and music festivals is underway in Newquay, South West Water is playing its part behind the scenes to make sure everything keeps flowing – quite literally.
Boardmasters attracts more than 30,000 festival-goers to the Cornish coast each August, with many thousands more visiting surrounding towns, beaches, bars, campsites and hotels. The event is a huge boost to the local economy – but it also brings with it a significant surge in pressure on local water and wastewater infrastructure.
South West Water teams have been working closely with Boardmasters organisers and local authorities to prepare for the influx. That includes proactive cleaning and inspections of the sewer network, 24/7 operational readiness to respond to any issues, and extra environmental monitoring to protect local beaches and bathing waters.
While the festival site itself has portable toilets, the wider town sees a sharp rise in usage as visitors fill local hotels, campsites, bars and restaurants.
To help manage the increased flows, South West Water has deployed special technology to boost treatment capacity, especially during extreme demand.
Andy Pettifer, Operations Manager at South West Water, said:
“Tourism is the lifeblood of our region – we want people to come and enjoy everything the South West has to offer. But it does mean more pressure on our networks. That’s why we’re out on the ground – inspecting, jetting, clearing blockages and staying one step ahead. Everyone can do their bit – please remember to only flush the 3Ps (pee, poo and paper), and never pour cooking fats or grease down the sink. It makes a huge difference.”
Last year alone, South West Water cleared over 6,000 sewer blockages, 75% of which were caused by flushed wipes or fats, oils and grease (FOG). With the region’s population almost doubling during peak holiday season, the company has issued a reminder to everyone to help keep sewers clear and protect the environment.
How South West Water supports summer events and festivals
- Pre-event inspections and network cleaning in hotspot areas
- 24/7 field teams on standby in key tourist and festival zones
- Proactive communications with organisers and local authorities
- Investment in storm overflow upgrades and advanced technologies to manage peak flows
- Awareness campaigns to reduce sewer misuse by visitors and local businesses
South West Water is also supporting other festivals this weekend – including the Great Estate Festival at Scorrier House – ensuring communities across Cornwall and Devon stay safe and operational, even at their busiest.
