Wastewater site upgrade aims to cut storm overflows

The new tank will increase the site's capacity for stormwater by 1.8 million litres

A new storm tank is being installed at a wastewater treatment works in Kent to cut overflows.

The tank, in Ashford, will increase the capacity for storm water by 1.8 million litres.

It means the site will be able to handle 7.5 million litres during wet weather before it is fully treated and released back to the environment.

Southern Water said the upgrade programme at Ashford's wastewater treatment works will help meet the challenge of heavier rainfall events due to climate change.

Project manager Ryan Lawrence said: "We’re focusing on reducing the number of storm overflow releases and investing in infrastructure improvements is an important part of this process."

In November 2023, a £4.3m programme of works to tackle unpleasant smells in the area around the wastewater treatment site were successfully completed.

Mr Lawrence said Southern Water was investing £3bn between 2020 and 2025 in its network - the equivalent of £1,500 per household.

The work on the new tank is due to be completed by early 2025.

Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.