Campaign to Clean up the Thames: Event to Highlight Impact of Sewage at Henley

River campaigners are joining forces to push for a cleaner Thames at Henley, with a reception to be held during Great Big Green Week on Wednesday 14 June between 6.00-8.00pm at the Town Hall.

Local residents are invited to attend and make their voices heard. The Henley Mermaids will be joined by Windrush Against Sewage Pollution and national campaign organisation River Action UK to discuss the impact of sewage pollution on the River Thames at Henley and what residents, politicians, campaign groups and community organisations can do to help resolve the crisis.

“There is evidence to suggest that there have been illegal sewage spills from Henley Sewage Treatment Works every year between 2009 and 2022, apart from 2019,” said Henley Mermaid Laura Reineke. “This is the international home of rowing and one of the best known and most loved river towns in the country. That illegal sewage dumping is continuing to happen is a disgrace.”

“The Thames at Henley is the international home of rowing and is cherished by those who live, work and play here,” said Green Councillor and Henley Mermaid Jo Robb. “We are proud that internationally renowned events like the Henley Royal Regatta and Henley Swim call our river their home but Thames Water is treating our Thames as an open sewer. It is totally unacceptable and has got to stop.”

The event will also call for politicians to back River Action UK’s Charter for Rivers.