Enhancing water quality in the South Downs

What are we doing?

The upgrade will allow us to remove more phosphorous during the treatment process. Too much phosphorus in rivers can make lots of algae grow, which uses up the oxygen that fish and other animals need to live. Phosphorus is removed from wastewater using something called ferric dosing. Ferric acts like a magnet, sticking to the phosphorus and helping it sink to the bottom so it can be removed more easily. This work will improve the quality of the water going back into the environment and make sure we comply with new environmental standards.

We set up on site to prepare for construction in June 2025. We’ll have four large cabins delivered for our temporary welfare compound. We expect this project to be completed by spring 2026.

Useful information for residents and visitors

During the construction work, you may see an increase in traffic in the area and there may be some extra activity and construction noise from the site.

Our working hours will be 8am - 5pm, Monday to Friday. We do not intend to work at weekends or on bank holidays, but we may need to sometimes to get the job done.

We’ll also put up signage to warn road users, and we’ll make sure deliveries are timed to prevent congestion. We aim to keep increased traffic and noise to a minimum.

Contact the Capital Projects Customer Team

You can email the Capital Projects Customer Team at capitalcomms@southernwater.co.uk. They will always get back to you within 5 working days, but usually less. 

Alternatively, you can call us on 0330 3030 368. Just tell us you’re calling about Capital Projects, with Project Reference Number (PRN) 870108 so we can help you more quickly.