Upgrades help Thames Water continue sludge reuse

Black & Veatch has helped expand and enhance Thames Water's sludge treatment operations, upgrading Basingstoke and Bracknell Sewage Treatment Works to enable the utility to continue its reuse of sludge and reduce the works’ environmental impact.

Secant piling on the 32m x 5m storm water storage tank at Basingstoke

The upgrades form part of a £5B programme of works that extend through 2015. The result will be improved water pipes, sewers and other facilities across London and the Thames Valley.

Steve Spencer, Thames Water’s head of Capital Delivery, said: “These essential works will ensure high performance of the plant. They also comply with new European regulations and reduce our impact on the environment by substantially reducing lorry movements to and from the sites."

The improvements provide compliance with nitrate pollution prevention regulations that govern the application of organic and inorganic fertiliser. In its role as principal contractor, Black & Veatch has carried out works that have enhanced asset performance, reduced the sites’ carbon footprint and increased capacity.

Mark Allan, Black & Veatch delivery director, said: “The close working relationship between Black & Veatch and Thames Water’s Capital Delivery Team has been key to meeting regulatory output dates and takeover of both schemes.”

Thames Water recycles all of its sludge, the majority of which is used as a nutrient rich fertiliser for agricultural land use.