Septic tank scheme aims to protect rivers

The scheme is available for householders in the River Stour catchment which includes Ashford, Maidstone and Canterbury

Householders in central Kent can have their septic tanks replaced for free as part of scheme designed to protect the county's rivers.

The scheme, which targets properties whose existing systems discharge excess phosphorus and nitrogen into Kent's waterways, aims to help protect Stodmarsh SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), Ashford Borough Council said.

Phosphorus and nitrogen are a major cause of water quality decline, and in parts of Kent the build-up of both has reached concerning levels, the council said.

Those within the River Stour catchment area, which borders areas including Ashford, Maidstone and Canterbury, are eligible.

Updating old or poorly performing septic tanks will help to reduce harmful nutrient run-off at source, a council spokesperson said.

The scheme is being delivered by National Rivers Consortium (NRC) in partnership with Stour Environmental Credits Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashford Borough Council and Canterbury City Council.

Conrad Webb, commercial director for NRC, said: "This is a genuine opportunity for local residents to modernise their wastewater treatment at no cost, while directly contributing to healthier rivers and helping much-needed housing development to get started."

Those eligible can register their interest via the NRC website.