On 6 February 2026, Luke Myer MP met regional representatives of Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) to discuss the case for action on storm overflows affecting East Cleveland – particularly around Skelton – as local campaigners continue to document pollution flowing through the beck, into Saltburn Gill, and ultimately out to sea.

The meeting followed growing concern from SAS Saltburn, who have been recording consistently high levels of E-coli and Enterococci downstream of the Skelton overflow. Luke heard first-hand how regular spills are degrading what was once a clear natural watercourse, undermining both the local environment and confidence that residents and visitors should be able to enjoy a clean coastline.

Nationally, the Labour Government’s is making overhauling the water industry a priority. Luke voted for the Water (Special Measures) Bill, which introduced criminal responsibility for water executives and banned bonuses for polluting bosses. In January, the government unveiled the next step with its Water White Paper. The once-in-a-generation overhaul will scrap Ofwat and create a tough new water regulator with new powers, including a Chief Engineer to carry out hands-on checks of water infrastructure and stop pipes, pumps and treatment works that have been left to crumble. For the first time, water companies will face mandatory ‘MOT-style’ checks on their assets, replacing the broken Conservative system that relied on self-reporting.

Luke committed to support the forthcoming Water Reform Bill and keeping pressure on both regulators and water companies as these changes are implemented, while continuing to build on his long track record of local work with community groups to ensure that the reality on the ground in places like Skelton matches the promises being made nationally.

Luke Myer MP said:

“What’s happening in Skelton is exactly why these reforms are needed. People here shouldn’t have to tolerate sewage in their becks or on their beaches, and I’ll keep pushing – with local campaigners – to make sure tougher rules actually translate into cleaner water on our doorstep.”