Whitstable (Swalecliffe), Kent

We're aiming to manage excess water in the network and reduce the use of storm overflows in Whitstable, Kent.

The challenge

Whitstable has a mostly separated sewer system, but there is still significant excess water in the network from the combined sewers. This has resulted in numerous permitted storm overflows within the catchment.

We're using a holistic approach to understand the root causes of the excess water. This includes the combined sewer system along with other factors such as misconnections and overland flows.

This will help us better manage water flows and reduce the risk of the system becoming overwhelmed. Working alongside local residents, Kent County Council and Canterbury City Council, our overall goal of the Pathfinder project in Whitstable is to reduce storm overflows by 20% by 2025.

What we're doing

Improving our infrastructure

In total we're investing £25 million in our Swalecliffe Wastewater Treatment Works. Working with the Environment Agency, we've been able to increase storm capacity at the site. We're also optimising pumping stations in the catchment, which will help us better manage excess water.

Introducing sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)

We're working with local residents and community groups to install SuDS that help to slow the flow of surface water into the sewer system. This includes installing water butts in homes in the area, as well as rain gardens and tree pits at Whitstable Library.

Locating and removing misconnections

Misconnections happen when surface water pipes are connected to the combined sewers which carry foul water. This increases the pressure on the system which can in turn lead to storm overflow releases. Finding and removing misconnections will help ease this pressure.

Monitoring the flow

We’ve also installed additional flow monitoring at key parts of the network. This will help us better understand water flows, alert us to faults, and overcome the challenge of excess water.

Results

Our Pathfinder project in Whitstable is due to be complete by 2025. You can use the links below to view or download the full reports.

1,800 cubic metres

The amount of extra storage capacity we've added to help manage excess stormwater and reduce storm overflows.

£25 million

Total amount invested in our Swalecliffe Wastewater Treatment Works.

Results

Our Pathfinder project in Whitstable is due to be complete by 2025. You can use the links below to view or download the full reports.

1,800 cubic metres

The amount of extra storage capacity we've added to help manage excess stormwater and reduce storm overflows.

£25 million

Total amount invested in our Swalecliffe Wastewater Treatment Works.

Building & Development

Commercial

Retailers

Our Region

About Us

Whitstable (Swalecliffe), Kent

The challenge