BAYEUX Wastewater Treatment Plant, Saint-Vigor-le-Grand, Normandy

The BAYEUX wastewater treatment plant is located in Saint-Vigor-le-Grand, near Bayeux in the Normandy region of France. It serves a population equivalent of 50,603, classifying it as a medium-to-large agglomeration under EU regulations. The plant is situated inland but within 50 km of the coast, reflecting its role in protecting both local waterways and the marine environment. As a French facility, the plant is subject to the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size. For plants serving over 10,000 population equivalent in sensitive areas, more stringent treatment may be mandated. The treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the English Channel. The plant plays a key role in safeguarding the Aure River and downstream coastal ecosystems, including the Baie de Seine, which supports diverse marine life and is an important area for migratory birds.

The plant discharges into the Aure River, which flows through the Bessin region before reaching the English Channel near Port-en-Bessin. The downstream environment includes the Baie de Seine, a nutrient-sensitive coastal zone that supports fisheries and migratory bird populations. Effective treatment is critical to prevent eutrophication and protect marine biodiversity in this ecologically significant area.