Better drainage systems set to be created across Hampshire to help reduce number of sewage discharges into the sea
The project focuses on reducing the number of storm overflows which sees untreated sewage dumped into the sea when the system is at capacity
Better drainage systems are set to be created across Hampshire in a bid to help tackle flooding and reduce sewage discharges into the sea by removing excess surface water entering combined sewer systems.
Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council and Southampton City Council will work closely with Southern Water on creating create more sustainable urban drainage (SuDS). It forms part of a key agreement for Southern Water’s £1.5bn Clean Rivers and Seas Plan to help reduce storm overflows which is in its first year.
An important part of the plan is closer collaboration with organisations to find solutions to reduce surface water getting into sewers, with untreated waste water discharged into the sea when the system has reached capacity.
This includes the creation of SuDs which are natural solutions that are usually swales, tree pits and raingardens. These are created to help tackle flooding and reduce storm overflows by removing excess surface water entering combined sewer systems.
Director for environment and innovation at Nick Mills said Southern Water said: “Having close relationships with councils like Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton is crucial in our mission to create healthier rivers and seas. These agreements open up an exciting opportunity to work side by side on practical, nature‑based solutions that cut storm overflows, strengthen our climate resilience and make a real difference for local communities. By joining forces, we can move faster, innovate more and deliver the cleaner environment we all want to see.”
The news follows the recent construction of Hampshire’s first roadside SuDs at Westborn Road in Fareham, a project shaped by feedback from local residents. As part of the Clean Rivers and Seas plan, around £170m is being spent in the Portsmouth catchment, including Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Waterlooville and Hayling Island, to reduce storm overflows.
Commenting on the Westborn Road SUDS, Councillor Steve Forster, Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Passenger Transport, said: “The completion of this Southern Water-funded trial marks an important milestone in testing a new approach to managing surface water and reducing pressure on the drainage network.
“Delivered by Hampshire County Council on Southern Water’s behalf, the scheme is designed to help lower flood risk and reduce the likelihood of sewer overflows following heavy rainfall in areas that have historically experienced these challenges.
“By creating natural green spaces that can capture and store rainwater, the project demonstrates how innovative infrastructure can help communities become more resilient to changing weather patterns.”
A further five councils have also entered into agreements with Southern Water including West Sussex County Council and Isle of Wight Council.