Northumbrian Water will begin a major £27 million upgrade of Morpeth Sewage Treatment Works (STW), helping to protect the environment, improve treatment capability and support future growth across the local area.
The project forms part of Northumbrian Water’s Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) and will deliver significant improvements to the treatment process, helping to reduce phosphorus levels in treated wastewater returned to the environment and improve water quality in the River Wansbeck.
As well as supporting improved river health, the scheme will increase the treatment capacity of the site to accommodate future population growth across the catchment.
The programme of work includes the construction of new treatment assets and upgrades to existing infrastructure, improving the final stage of the wastewater treatment process. This will make the treated water even cleaner before it is safely returned to the environment and strengthen the resilience and performance of the site.
The project will be delivered by the water company’s partner Mott MacDonald Bentley.
Construction is expected to begin in late October and will continue for around two years. Site activity will take place within the existing treatment works, with a temporary compound established adjacent to the site to support project delivery.
Paul Davison, Project Manager for Northumbrian Water, said:
“This is a significant investment in Morpeth’s wastewater infrastructure that will benefit both the local community and the environment for many years to come.
“The improvements we’re making will help us further reduce phosphorus levels entering the River Wansbeck, support future growth across the catchment and ensure the treatment works continues to operate reliably and efficiently.
“We’re committed to keeping customers and stakeholders informed throughout the project and will work closely with our delivery partners to minimise disruption wherever possible while we carry out these important upgrades.”
For more information and project updates, customers can visit Northumbrian Water’s Community Hub page: Project: Morpeth Wastewater Treatment Works | Northumbrian Water