The criminal offence of water pollution is defined as the entry of poisonous, noxious or polluting matter. This covers most inland and coastal waters, including groundwaters. The law has therefore clearly established the principle that such entry should be the exception and, where it is necessary, must be controlled.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, DEFRA, has included a copy of the Economic Instruments for Water Pollution at DEFRA.

Their website also has a section on water quality. This section provides links to material on quality of the water environment - rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal waters and groundwater. This includes issues such as sewerage treatment and disposal, bathing waters, dangerous substances, nitrates from agricultural sources, and economic instruments for water pollution.

The local water service provider also has responsibilities. For more information contact Severn Trent Water on 0800 783 4444.