New scheme to reduce storm overflows into Chichester Harbour
Innovative nature-based and engineering solutions designed to cut storm overflows into Chichester Harbour are set for a series of Hampshire and West Sussex communities
Reducing storm overflows into Chichester Harbour
Southern Water's Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force is carrying out surveys of the wastewater network in the Emsworth, Southbourne, Nutbourne and Chidham areas.
These investigations will help teams decide on the actions required to reduce storm overflows from Thornham Wastewater Treatment Works that enter Chichester Harbour – releases that happen when our sewers and site are overloaded with surface and groundwater.
Solutions could include relining or replacing sewer pipes so groundwater cannot get in, and the creation of Sustainable Drainage Schemes (SuDS) like raingardens, water butts and swales which slow the flow of surface water.
This approach is part of the £1.5bn Clean Rivers and Seas Plan to drastically cut storm overflow numbers, and help protect the environment and Hampshire, Kent, Sussex and the Isle of Wight.
Customers in these communities can find out more about the surveys and future interventions at a special drop-in event to be held on Friday 12 September, at St John’s Church at Main Road, Stein Rd, A259, Southbourne PO10 8LB in Southbourne, between 1pm and 8pm.
Efforts in Chichester Harbour forms an important part of our role in the Three Harbours Partnership – alongside Langstone and Pagham - with organisations working together to protect and enhance these precious environments, particularly in terms of water quality, carbon capture and biodiversity.
Jon Yates, Head of Delivery for the Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force, said:
“We’re delighted to start work on reducing storm overflows in this much-loved area of the Hampshire and Sussex coastline.
“Our teams will be visible on the ground in Emsworth and the villages along the A259, working to investigate our network and identify areas for improvement. This initial investigation stage will last around three months before we start to look at rolling out solutions that will make a real difference in reducing overflows.”
Recently we announced how we’re spending £4m to reduce storm overflows at Bognor Regis and we also have a scheme at Bosham – close to the locations where we’re now working along Chichester Harbour. Along with a huge investment of £170m in the Portsmouth Harbour area to help improve water quality and protect shellfish.