Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force

Our new wetland at Lavant Wastewater Treatment Works has naturally and sustainably held and treated over 134 storm overflow releases that would have previously gone out into River Lavant. 

This area of East Sussex suffers from high levels of groundwater which can overwhelm our system and tankering is often required to move this water elsewhere. As well as reducing the need for tankers by holding water, wetlands clean and purify water without any polluting by-product and they improve the biodiversity of the area. 

We’ve installed sustainable drainage systems in nearly 100 schools across the south in partnership with the DfE, preventing over 117 million litres of rainwater from contributing to flooding and storm overflows.

Sustainable drainage systems such as raingardens, swales, tree pits and water butts can make a huge difference. In under two years, the sustainable drainage installed has slowed enough water to fill 46 Olympic-sized swimming pools. This water has been put to good use feeding plants and creating interactive areas for learning and play. 

In the Pan Parishes, we found that private pipework in poor condition was increasing groundwater infiltration resulting in over pumping, storm overflows and up to 30 tankers a day. 

After seeking permission from the owner, we investigated further and sealed over 2.5km of private pipework at no cost to the customer, as well as 2km of our network, and 68 manholes. This work will help prevent groundwater from getting in and future-proof our sewer system. Since completion, tankers are no longer needed in this area despite record groundwater levels.