Work has started to install a storm water storage tank in a Northumberland sewage treatment works to help to protect and improve water quality in the River North Tyne.

Northumbrian Water is investing £2.5 million in the upgrades at its site in Bellingham.

The work is being carried out by the water company’s partners, Esh Stantec. The tank will hold storm water and wastewater from homes at times of heavy rainfall, ready to be treated when flows reduce, protecting against the risk of spills to the environment.

Work will be substantially complete by the end of March 2025, followed by finalisation works on site through the summer.

The project builds on other investment around the North Tyne, including a £3.5 million project to triple capacity at Wark Sewage Treatment Works, which is close to completion.

Jonathan Shaw, Northumbrian Water’s Project Manager, said:

“We know how important water quality in our rivers and coasts is to our customers and we share that passion. This project helps us to protect and improve water quality in the River North Tyne, as well as adding resilience to Bellingham Sewage Treatment Works itself.”