RESIDENTS in Eastbourne say they are at breaking point as a foul stench from the Southern Water Treatment Works at Langney Point continues to blight the neighbourhood, with one local describing it as ‘beyond tolerable’.
Tim Taylor, who lives nearby, has pleaded for urgent action. He told Eastbourne News: “The temperature in Eastbourne is approx. 23 degrees. It is hot, humid and sticky.
“The endless, ongoing, relentless, unbearable stench pouring from the Southern Water Treatment Works on the seafront at Langney Point is beyond tolerable; words cannot even begin to express the revulsion I feel.
“Please! Southern Water – do something Now! Accelerate your efforts, cease this horrific smell, and put an end to the torment you are causing. It’s making me physically ill!
Southern Water has confirmed that work is underway to address the issue both in the short and long term.
A spokesperson told us:“We’re sorry customers are experiencing unpleasant odours near our treatment works in Langney Point.
“We are working to help improve this in the short term through carrying out a deep clean of the site but the longer-term fix will involve refurbishing the odour and air control units. This work will start this Summer and is expected to be complete by January 2026.”
Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde said he is continuing to press for immediate improvements.
He said: “Over the past ten months, I have repeatedly pushed Southern Water to get a grip of this issue, writing to them on numerous occasions.
“Recognising residents’ growing frustration, I have escalated this case further, writing to both Ofwat and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, urging them to investigate and take action.
“Last month, I raised the matter in the House of Commons — challenging the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves — and calling for swift and effective action to tackle smell nuisances and for the Government to hold water companies accountable.
“I will continue to hold Southern Water to account, pushing for accelerated progress on the refurbishment. While also calling for effective mitigation in the meantime.”
Residents are now demanding not just promises, but results before the summer heat intensifies the misery any further.
