Stopping tankers in the Pan Parishes
We've been upgrading and sealing pipework in the Pan Parishes to reduce groundwater infiltration and put an end to tankering.
The problem with groundwater
The Pan Parishes in West Andover are heavily affected by groundwater infiltration - when groundwater forces its way into the sewer system and overwhelms it. This infiltration caused flooding in the area and interruptions to water supply, which was understandably distressing for residents. To prevent this, up to 30 tankers 24 hours a day were needed to remove the excess groundwater, causing road closures and disruption.
This was not a sustainable solution, and we wanted to do better for our customers and the environment.
Sealing public and private pipework
After careful research we found that sealing private pipework to reduce groundwater infiltration would be an effective, long-term, and low-impact solution.
We set out to seal over 300 private pipes (2.5km), 2km of our own network, and 68 manholes. We worked with homeowners, business owners and local authorities to get permission to seal private pipes.
Find out more about sewer sealing.
No more tankers in the Pan Parishes
Despite exceptional groundwater levels, at some sites the highest on record, tankers have been reduced from up to 30 per day to none required at all.
Improved infrastructure
This no-dig method of strengthening pipework will make sure the sewer system remains resilient against the pressures of groundwater.
Winchester and Chandler's Ford MP Steve Brine, said:
“Hugely impressive teamwork, covering private properties as well as Southern Water’s own networks, from their Pan Parish Forum which brings together either parish councils. Good learning for our area I will be taking with me.”
Future work
We're continuing to seal both public and private pipework in high groundwater areas to reduce infiltration and prevent tankering and storm overflows.
Find out more about how our Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force are reducing storm overflows across our region.