Major Investments to Protect the River Itchen
A significant sum of nearly £8 million has been allocated for improvements aimed at safeguarding the River Itchen. These initiatives focus on enhancing the quality of water that flows into the river, with key upgrades taking place at two sites: Eastleigh’s Chickenhall works and Winchester’s Harestock works.
At the Harestock site, a £2.4 million investment was made to implement a treatment process known as ferric dosing. This method effectively removes higher levels of phosphorus from the water flow, which is crucial in maintaining the ecological balance of the river. Phosphorus, when present in excess, can lead to algal blooms and other negative impacts on aquatic life.
Meanwhile, the Chickenhall works saw a more substantial investment of £5.4 million. The funds were used to construct a new storm tank designed to hold back excess storm water during periods of heavy rainfall. This infrastructure helps reduce the reliance on storm overflows, which are typically used when the system becomes overwhelmed by surface water. By managing stormwater more efficiently, the risk of pollution entering the river is significantly lowered.
Alex Lamm, a senior project manager involved in the work, expressed satisfaction with the completion of these projects. He highlighted the importance of the upgrades in improving the health of the River Itchen, noting that they contribute to reducing the amount of phosphorus entering the river and increasing the capacity to store stormwater.
Ongoing Projects and Future Plans
The upgrades at Chickenhall and Harestock are part of a broader initiative to modernise wastewater treatment facilities across South Hampshire. GTB, the contractor responsible for these projects, has completed two out of three planned upgrades. The third project, which involves an £8.1 million storm tank scheme at Portswood Wastewater Treatment Works, is currently in the pipeline.
Stuart Whisby, the project manager for GTB, praised the efforts of the teams involved, stating that their dedication ensured the timely completion of the projects. He noted that meeting regulatory deadlines was a key objective, and the successful delivery of the work reflects the commitment of all stakeholders.
Southern Water, the company overseeing these developments, plays a vital role in providing essential water and wastewater services to millions of customers. The company serves 2.7 million customers with water supply and 4.7 million customers with wastewater services across Hampshire, Kent, Sussex, and the Isle of Wight.
Broader Implications for Environmental Protection
These improvements are part of a larger effort to protect and enhance the natural environment, particularly in areas where water quality is a concern. The River Itchen, a significant waterway in Hampshire, benefits from these investments, which aim to ensure its long-term health and sustainability.
By reducing the amount of pollutants entering the river, these measures support biodiversity and help maintain the river’s ecological value. Additionally, the ability to manage stormwater more effectively contributes to flood prevention and the overall resilience of the local environment.
As Southern Water continues its work on upgrading infrastructure, it remains focused on delivering services that meet the needs of both the community and the environment. The ongoing projects reflect a commitment to responsible water management and environmental stewardship.
With future developments planned, the continued investment in water treatment and stormwater management will play a critical role in preserving the region’s natural resources for generations to come.
