Southern Water will shortly begin an ambitious programme of work to tackle storm overflows at key locations across the Isle of Wight.
The £20 million scheme will see work at Newport, Gurnard, West and East Cowes, Ryde and locations in the West Wight area helping to protect and improve the island’s rivers, coastline and natural environment.
The programme has been made possible through accelerated funding approved by Ofwat, enabling vital investigations and planning work to begin earlier than originally scheduled so environmental improvements can be delivered sooner for local communities.
The Isle of Wight has previously been a focus for innovative trials to reduce storm overflows, with around £9 million invested to test a range of solutions.
Over the next two years, the water company will be continuing investigations in these key locations and identifying quick fixes along with larger schemes which will take longer to deliver before the remaining overflows are released. Overall Southern Water will be looking to spend around £20 million on solutions.
Graham Williamson, Project Manager for the Isle of Wight, said:
"The Isle of Wight is home to some of the UK's most treasured rivers, coastlines and bathing waters, and we are determined to play our part in protecting them. By combining targeted investment, innovation and practical action, we can significantly reduce the frequency and volume of storm overflows and create a cleaner, healthier and more resilient environment for future generations.
“We are building on the knowledge, expertise and local insight we have already gained to focus investment where it will have the greatest impact. This includes delivering sustainable drainage solutions that slow the flow of rainwater, separating surface water from homes, schools and commercial buildings, and continuing to improve the performance and resilience of our existing network."
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