The new tank will increase our capacity for stormwater by 1.8 million litres, meaning the site will be able to handle 7.5 million litres during wet weather before it is fully treated and released back to the environment.
This will help with the challenge of more frequent, heavier rainfall events due to climate change.
The works will start in late March with the aim of being completed by early 2025.
In November 2023, a £4.3m programme of works to tackle unpleasant smells in the vicinity of Ashford Wastewater Treatment works were successfully completed. This new storm tank will not cause any new odours around the site.
Southern Water’s Project Manager, Ryan Lawrence, said:
“We’re focusing on reducing the number of storm overflow releases and investing in infrastructure improvements is an important part of this process. This new storm tank is one of many ways we’re seeking to improve our environmental performance and make a positive difference across our region.”
"Southern Water is committed to improving its environmental performance and is investing £3bn between 2020 and 2025 in its network - the equivalent of £1,500 per household. The company also launched a two-year turnaround plan earlier this year to drive results.