SIX bathing sites in Sussex have experienced sewage releases following heavy rainfall today.

Southern Water’s Beachbuoy app shows that the locations on the coast have had storm releases in the past 24 hours. 

It comes after The Argus reported earlier today that Southern Water anticipates sewer outflows may release storm water and sewage.

The six bathing sites which have been marked on the app as having a release are:

  • Littlehampton
  • Lancing Beach Green
  • Shoreham Beach
  • Southwick
  • Bexhill
  • St Leonards

The Argus: Southern Water's Beachbuoy mapSouthern Water's Beachbuoy map

A Southern Water spokeswoman said: “Extreme rain can overwhelm the combined sewer and drainage system which exists in many parts of our region.

“To protect homes, schools and businesses from flooding has led to some overflows  – releasing excess water into the sea. These discharges are heavily diluted, typically being 95 per cent rainwater.

“We are dedicated to significantly reducing storm overflows and are running innovative pilot schemes across the region to reduce the amount of rainfall entering our combined sewers by 2030.”

Last week Southern faced criticism after sewage releases at 13 beaches across Sussex following a period of heavy rain were flagged by Surfers Against Sewage.