Northumbrian Water is due to begin a £23 million project in the Cambois area of Northumberland aimed at reducing wastewater spills. The work at Cleasewell Hill, near Choppington, is scheduled to start on Monday, November 9, and continue until May 2027.
Project aims to cut storm overflow spills
The investment is designed to reduce the number of storm overflow spills and improve water quality in the River Wansbeck. The project involves installing new underground stormwater storage near the existing pumping station on Sheepwash Road, along with associated pipework and chambers.
This new storage will increase the capacity of the wastewater network. During periods of heavy rainfall, the pressure on the system will be alleviated, reducing the likelihood of storm overflow discharges into the environment.
Understanding storm overflow spills
A storm overflow spill occurs when a combined sewer system, which carries both household wastewater (sewage) and rainwater in the same pipes, reaches its capacity during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. This can lead to significant pollution in local waterways and seas.
The project will be carried out by Northumbrian Water's delivery partner, Avove.
Community impact and investment
Rachael Clifford, Project Manager at Northumbrian Water, said: "This is an important investment for the area, which will provide additional capacity in our wastewater network and help reduce storm overflow spills - supporting our wider work to protect and improve the River Wansbeck.
"We know the field at Cleasewell Hill is valued and used by local people, so we understand there will be some inconvenience while we carry out this essential work. Once the project is complete, we will reinstate the affected area and continue to keep the community informed as the work progresses.
We have already had the opportunity to speak directly with residents about the project, and their feedback has been really valuable. We will continue working with the community as the project progresses and look at opportunities to create a positive legacy from our work."
Northumbrian Water is investing £4.5bn in total in the region between 2025 and 2030. This is the largest investment programme in the last 30 years.
