River Tamar Concerns Taken to Westminster: MP Anna Gelderd Visits Drip Drip

Community group Drip Drip shares data and concerns on sewage and river health.

On 7th August, Drip Drip welcomed our Member of Parliament, Anna Gelderd, to Calstock to discuss the challenges facing the River Tamar. The visit was part of our ongoing efforts to highlight the impacts of sewage discharges, water quality, and the risks these pose to both wildlife and river users.

At Calstock Quay, Anna joined members of the Drip Drip team to see how we collect samples for professional lab testing. We shared our latest E. coli and Enterococcus monitoring results, which demonstrate the continuing pressure on the river system. We also raised wider concerns about untreated pollutants entering the Tamar, including pharmaceuticals, household chemicals, and so-called “forever chemicals.”

Community voices were central to the visit, with Drip Drip representing local residents, swimmers, and river users. Concerns included health risks from untreated sewage, lack of transparency from water companies, and the urgent need for investment in local infrastructure.

Anna acknowledged the strength of feeling locally and committed to raising these issues further in Parliament. She has already used Drip Drip’s data to urge the Environment Minister to take more urgent action. She also praised the dedication of Drip Drip’s volunteers and the wider community for their efforts to safeguard the Tamar.

This visit was an important step in ensuring that local concerns are heard at the highest level of decision-making. But much more remains to be done. Drip Drip will continue to advocate for meaningful change, hold polluters to account, and work towards a cleaner, safer river for all.