00:00Pollution is proving to be one of Wales' most pressing environmental battles, with
00:05rivers and beaches particularly across the country, coming under increasing strain.
00:10The questions surrounding pollution in our waterways, rising costs of water bills and
00:15a supposed lack of action from water companies has caused controversy in recent years.
00:20In Bridgend, the River Ogmore and nearby bathing waters have faced repeated pollution incidents,
00:25prompting concern among councillors and local residents.
00:28At a recent full council meeting, Old Castle councillor Ian Williams pressed the authority
00:33to take stronger action.
00:34He asked whether Bridgend should work with regulators and even launch legal proceedings against
00:39Welsh water, in a bid to hold the company accountable and prevent further damage.
00:45Council leader John Spanswick was clear.
00:47He told the chamber he had no intention of instructing officers to begin legal proceedings, insisting
00:52it's National Resources Wales who hold responsibility for regulating Welsh water and holding them
00:57to account.
00:58He did stress however that he personally continues to challenge both Welsh water and regulators
01:03on the issue, and highlighted the role of local charities and volunteers who have removed
01:07thousands of tyres and other rubbish from rivers and beaches all across the county.
01:12The debate comes with around 3,000 new homes planned for South Bridgend, raising fresh questions
01:18about whether the current infrastructure in place is sufficient to cope without putting even
01:22more pressure on the local environment.
01:24For two years running, bathing waters at Ogmore by sea have been officially rated as poor,
01:28a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge.
01:31While campaigners and councillors are pushing for tougher measures, the council itself has ruled
01:35out legal action, leaving some to wonder what will it take to clean up Wales' waterways for good.
01:40I'm J.P. Watkins reporting for Local TV.
01:42J.P. Watkins reporting for Local TV.
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