UPDATE ON LOCAL ODOUR ISSUES – AUGUST 2026
The Sherford Consortium commissioned independent specialists to carry out testing after odour mitigation works completed in July, to confirm that the measures had worked as intended.
The independent report issued on 12th August confirms that the work has been entirely successful; it factually demonstrates that Sherford is not contributing to the ongoing odour issues affecting the Plympton area.
The works undertaken at Sherford included switching the pumping station from three active pumps to two and reducing the dual rising main to a single pipe, which has significantly increased the speed at which wastewater moves through the system, alongside chemical solution dosing to neutralise the odour.
What the follow-up investigation found
The Sherford Consortium appointed specialists to run tests in July and August, placing gas monitoring equipment, taking samples, and carrying out analysis at both Sherford’s pumping station and at the chamber by Merafield Road. Multiple visits were undertaken to build a thorough picture of conditions throughout the system.
The report confirms that the changes made to the foul water pump station are performing as intended. Septicity is being successfully controlled through chemical dosing, and the treatment being applied is effective without being excessive.
What happens next
Sherford’s pumping station is being monitored around the clock by a specialist maintenance contractor and this will continue. The Consortium will continue to monitor septicity levels, altering the dosing volumes if required, and maintain the facilities until South West Water takes over responsibility for the pumping station.
The report has been shared in full with South West Water, with whom the Consortium has maintained close communication throughout. The sewage network and pumping station are progressing through the adoption process to transfer into South West Water’s control, and the Sherford Consortium is doing everything possible to facilitate that.
