United Utilities, a major water company in the UK, has been fined nearly £1 million after illegally releasing raw sewage into the Lancashire coastline, including popular seaside towns like Blackpool. The company admitted to five environmental permit violations in a case linked to a pollution incident along the Fylde coast in June 2023. The fine, imposed by Preston magistrates' court, includes £964,225 for penalties and legal costs. The pollution occurred over several days, with sewage being discharged from pumping stations in Manchester Square, Anchorsholme, and Chatsworth Avenue for more than 35 hours. This affected several coastal communities, including Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, Fleetwood, and Cleveleys. The Environment Agency issued a "no bathing" warning for all eight designated bathing areas along the affected coastline. United Utilities’ own data showed that a sewage plume reached seven of these areas, severely degrading water quality. The pollution had a significant impact on local communities and businesses, with the Environment Agency reporting that summer visitor numbers in Blackpool dropped by hundreds of thousands compared to the previous year. Sewage was visibly present on beaches and at recreational facilities, such as Fleetwood Baths. Tests found high levels of E. coli, a bacteria that can cause illness, and three shellfish beds were temporarily closed due to public health concerns. The pollution incident began after a partial collapse of a final effluent pipe at the Fleetwood wastewater treatment works. This reduced the site's capacity to handle sewage, causing wastewater to back up through the network. Heavy rainfall then led to the discharge of sewage from the three pumping stations. An investigation by the Environment Agency found that United Utilities had not met the conditions outlined in its environmental permits. The company accepted that the incident was classified as "category one," which is the most severe level of pollution under the agency’s classification system. Andy Brown, the Environment Agency’s water regulation manager, called the incident "unacceptable" and emphasized its serious impact on residents and businesses along the Fylde coast. He noted that United Utilities admitted to breaching its permits, and the fine reflects the seriousness of the violations and the harm caused. Chris Borradaile, director of wastewater services at United Utilities, expressed deep regret for the incident, stating the company accepts full responsibility and acknowledges that it did not meet the standards expected by its customers and the communities it serves.