Barhale has completed work on two separate Rapid Action Taskforce Spills projects it is carrying out for Severn Trent.

At Farndon in Cheshire the team has improved wastewater and stormwater storage capacity, alongside bringing new Submerged Aerated Filter (SAF) treatment assets into operation. The project reduces the risk of storm overflows and ensures captured wastewater can be returned to the network for full treatment.

A 250mm OD PE100 pipe was installed between the existing spill tank and storm tank to allow controlled transfer of flows and prevent overtopping during storm events. In addition, a separate 250mm OD PE rising main was installed from the spill tank to the inlet chamber, enabling stored wastewater to be pumped back into the treatment process.

Twin 100mm ducts with draw pits were constructed between the storm and spill tanks and routed to a nearby kiosk. This provides communication and telemetry links, allowing the site to monitor tank levels. New control panels were installed on both if tanks which established communication links between tanks and kiosk.

The project also included reinstatement and connection of pipework to new SAF tanks. The SAF feed rising main was connected to the existing biofilter distribution chamber to allow wastewater to enter the SAFs. The SAF discharge gravity main was connected to the existing humus feed chamber, enabling treated effluent to flow onward for final settlement. An SAF desludge main was connected into the existing return pumping station to remove excess sludge build-up and prevent solids carryover into the treated water stream.

The Midlands team has also delivered another RATS (Rapid Action Taskforce Spills) project for Severn Trent at Long Whatton, Leicestershire.

The team has supported improvements to the site’s sludge management and biological treatment processes. The scope of works focused on the removal of the existing overground bagging system and the installation of new below-ground pipework to connect into the proposed pumps, Submerged Aerated Filter (SAF) units and associated chambers.

Works included installation of new 125mm OD pipework for the lamella feed and SAF desludge connections, along with 250mm OD discharge pipework connecting the SAF system to the existing Primary Settlement Tank (PST). Sludge and desludge lines were connected to their respective tie-in points, including the humus line and biofilter connection. The system incorporates both pumped and gravity-fed sections to maintain effective process flow.

Additional works included the installation of ducting to provide power and telemetry connections to the SAF units and PST, along with construction of a reinforced concrete slab to support new valves and ductile iron pipework. Vacuum excavation was used where required to safely expose existing services and minimise risk during tie-ins.

The project has enhanced the integration of new process equipment into the existing treatment infrastructure, improving overall operational efficiency and supporting continued compliance at the works.

Working with Severn Trent, Barhale’s Midlands team has been delivering Rapid Action Taskforce Spills (RATS) schemes to help reduce combined sewer overflow (CSO) spills across the region.

The programme has delivered fast-tracked, bespoke solutions to enhance the network and protect local water courses.