Thames Water has launched a £14.7 million upgrade project at Banbury Sewage Treatment Works (STW), aiming to boost the facility’s flow capacity by 84%, from 266 to 490 litres per second. Scheduled for completion by 2029, this expansion will significantly reduce the risk of storm overflows caused by heavy rainfall and extended groundwater retention, which can overwhelm local sewer systems.
A key part of the upgrade includes a phosphorus reduction scheme designed to enhance the quality of treated effluent discharged into nearby rivers. This project is one of 250 wastewater site improvements Thames Water is undertaking across its network to address rising demand driven by population growth and climate change.
Mark Ruinet, Senior Project Manager at Thames Water, emphasized the importance of these upgrades:“As custodians of important infrastructure, we need to ensure our sites are resilient to the pressures of climate change and population growth so we can continue to provide reliable services to our customers. Our upgrades at Banbury Sewage Treatment Works demonstrate our commitment to protecting both customers and the health of our rivers and waterways.”
Ruinet added that maintaining healthy waterways requires a collective effort:“We believe all discharges are unacceptable and are committed to seeing thriving waterways, but we cannot do it alone. Everyone must work together to protect our rivers.”
The project was recently showcased to Sean Woodcock, MP for Banbury, and members of the Cropredy Women’s Institute during a site visit. Thames Water invited them to learn about the improvements and the daily wastewater treatment process.
Sean Woodcock commented:“I am grateful to the Cropredy Women’s Institute for their invitation to tour the Banbury Sewage Treatment Works. It was encouraging to hear Thames Water’s plans to tackle pollution in the River Cherwell and local waterways. I hope these efforts will lead to cleaner rivers for good.”
Sue Smith, President of Cropredy Women’s Institute, reflected on the visit:“We gained a deeper understanding of the treatment process and its challenges. This knowledge inspires us to continue our citizen science work and encourage communities to be mindful of their water use and sewage system.”
The Banbury upgrade is part of Thames Water’s broader initiative, which includes improvements at nearby sites in Bloxham, Hanwell, and Greatworth, to better manage the impacts of climate change and population growth on wastewater infrastructure.
Related topics: