A new interactive map has been published, with some sites functioning at less than 60% of required capacity
Analysts from the volunteer-led Oxford Rivers Improvement Campaign [ORIC] conducted on-the-ground research which revealed the extent of the shortcomings.
Of the locations which are underperforming, 94 are operating between 80 and 100% capacity, and 70 between 60 and 80%. Meanwhile, 17 are functioning below 60%, including Hanwell and Bourton-on-the-Water, in Oxfordshire, which are thought to be treating less than half of the sewage they receive.
The majority of worst performing works were outside London and located at headwater streams and Thames tributaries. These locations are likely to be more vulnerable to pollutants compared to the main river itself, because smaller water bodies are incapable of diluting sewage effectively.
Researchers spent two years conducting the study, using data accessed through Environmental Information Requests from Thames Water and cross-referenced this with population figures. Capacities were calculated on methodology approved by the Environment Agency, and are therefore not approved by regulators in any official capacity.
‘Thames Water’s underperforming sewage works need to be upgraded to meet modern regulatory requirements — where housing growth is planned, upgrades to sewage works are needed before the development is constructed,’ said John Bryden, Head of Improving Rivers at Thames21 and Regional Development Manager at The Rivers Trust.
‘Swift action is needed, particularly in headwater streams. This should happen through a combination of traditional grey solutions, like building bigger treatment tanks, and lining sewers, and green solutions such as sustainable drainage systems and treatment wetlands. By making this data public, we aim to empower communities, environmental groups, and local authorities to call for immediate infrastructure upgrades,’ he continued.
The findings are now available through a new interactive map published on the Oxford Rivers Project Portal. You can access this here.
Image: Thames21
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