Thousands of demonstrators took to central London streets on Sunday, calling for urgent action to clean up Britain’s rivers, lakes, and seas.
The “March for Clean Water” saw support from environmental campaigners, including singer Feargal Sharkey and adventurer Bear Grylls, alongside key organisations like Greenpeace, the Wildlife Trusts, and British Rowing.
Protesters highlighted the need for a thorough review of water regulator Ofwat and the Environment Agency, advocating for stricter enforcement against water companies responsible for pollution violations.
River Action, one of the groups leading the march, estimated a turnout of approximately 15,000 people.
Attendees were encouraged to dress in blue and bring a sample from a local body of water, symbolizing the personal importance of clean water for all.
Many marchers wore eye-catching costumes, and placards featured slogans such as “Tides Not Turds,” “Cut the Crap,” and “Water for Life.”
Jenny Linford, a food writer, described the state of Britain’s water since privatisation as “disgusting” and “obscene,” noting that increasing sewage pollution is driving the public demand for change. She added that this issue played a significant role in the Conservative Party’s recent electoral defeat.
The newly elected Labour government has since announced legislation granting regulators greater power to impose harsher penalties, including possible prison terms, on polluting water companies and their executives.
Environmental advocate and endurance swimmer Lewis Pugh stressed that unchecked pollution harms rivers and oceans alike, explaining that agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and plastic contamination threaten entire ecosystems.
Water UK, representing the industry, acknowledged the urgent need for reform, conceding that the current regulatory framework is “too complicated, too slow,” and ultimately fails both the public and the environment.
The organisation urged Ofwat to adopt a more effective approach to infrastructure investment and pollution control.
As awareness grows, environmental groups and the public continue to press the government to safeguard Britain’s waters for future generations. The march demonstrated widespread support for stronger measures, with participants demanding an immediate commitment to clean water initiatives across the country.
