3rd October 2022

Grants are available for homes, businesses and farms in and around Windermere to form community septic tank emptying schemes.

Love Windermere information packs are going to 1900 properties and businesses across Windermere in the coming weeks with advice on how to maintain septic tanks and in-turn, keep the lake healthy.

The move is part of the Love Windermere Partnership which was launched in the summer with the biggest ever cooperation of stakeholders to tackle challenges in the lake.

The Lake District Foundation is working with the Environment Agency to help prevent pollution in Windermere caused by poorly maintained non-mains drainage systems.

Better maintenance of septic tanks could contribute to better water quality at Windermere and significantly reduce septic tank maintenance costs.

Sarah Swindley, Lake District Foundation Chief Executive, said: “We all want water quality to be the best it can be for all to enjoy.

“We are trialling a new project where people can save time and money by joining a community emptying scheme. We have grants available to help communities come together to have tanks emptied at the same time.

“This is a really exciting move which has never been attempted before in Windermere and we are keen to work with the community to make a positive impact on this wonderful place.”

A digital version of the pack can be viewed here. 

Around £8000 is available in total for neighbours to set up community emptying schemes. Septic tank owners can register interest in community collection schemes here: www.callofnature.info/windermereproperty-pack-feedback/