Welsh Water’s pioneering £13 million nature-based storm overflow scheme at Pont-y-felin Lane, Torfaen, has delivered a 93% reduction in spills into the Afon Lwyd during its first year of operation.
Photo: Nature-based storm overflow scheme at Pontyfeli
The site consists of a network of reedbeds and pools that retains stormwater flows before they reach the Afon Lwyd, a tributary of the River Usk. The site’s native wetland plants and natural processes filter pollutants before the water is released into the watercourse. Not only does the site treat stormwater, but it also reduces the risk of flooding to nearby properties.
By using a constructed wetland instead of conventional concrete storage tanks, the project saved around £40 million and avoided more than 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.
So far this year, there have been just six untreated stormwater spills, compared with 107 in 2023 and 91 in 2024 over the same period, marking reductions of 94% and 93% respectively.
The success of the innovative new scheme, which also came with lower construction costs and wide-ranging community benefits, offers a new model for more Welsh communities.
The £13 million scheme’s success has prompted the company to call on environmental regulators to support the development of similar projects over the coming years.
Steve Wilson, chief operating officer at Welsh Water, said:
“This is development has proved to be a positive for us and the community, with low-carbon construction that has slashed the number of spills, while delivering community parkland and reduced flood risks.
“We want to build on the success we’ve had at Pont-y-felin and deliver similar green sites across our operating area. We have schemes in development but delivering them at pace will require early engagement and a clear, proportionate approach from regulators.
“Nature-based solutions can play an important role in improving river health and delivering better value for money for customers.
“Pont-y-felin is a powerful example of how we can work with nature to improve river water quality and build climate resilience, rather than relying solely on concrete and carbon-intensive construction.
“One year on, the site is delivering encouraging results for the river, wildlife and the local community, while demonstrating a more sustainable and cost-effective way to reduce the impact of storm overflows.”
A key driver for the project, in line with Welsh Government policy of targeting investment where it will deliver the greatest environmental benefit, was a decline of invertebrates in the Afon Lwyd.
Sampling indicates this has begun to reverse, with early results indicating an improvement of water quality and a reduction in biological impact. However, further monitoring will be needed to establish whether this represents a sustained recovery.
The site has also created new habitats and a well-used community green space with footpaths, seating and educational features.
Welsh Water is now using the learning from Pont-y-felin to inform plans for further nature-based and hybrid solutions across its operating area, targeting investment where it can deliver the greatest environmental benefit.
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