Overview
Clitheroe STW serves approximately 21,265 people in Ribble Valley, Lancashire, England. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the River Ribble catchment, which flows into the Irish Sea.
Clitheroe STW is a municipal wastewater treatment plant located on Henthorn Road in Clitheroe, Ribble Valley, Lancashire, England. Serving a population of around 21,265, the facility is part of the region's wastewater infrastructure managed under UK environmental regulations. As a medium-sized agglomeration, the plant is expected to meet secondary treatment standards under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD), which is transposed into UK law. The treatment process typically involves biological treatment to reduce organic matter and suspended solids before discharge. The treated effluent is discharged into the River Ribble catchment, which flows westward through Lancashire and into the Irish Sea near Lytham St Annes. The river supports diverse aquatic life and is an important habitat for salmon and trout, making effective wastewater treatment crucial for maintaining water quality in this ecologically sensitive area.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the River Ribble catchment, which drains into the Irish Sea. The Ribble is a key river in Lancashire, supporting salmonid fisheries and diverse aquatic ecosystems. Downstream, the estuary is a designated site of ecological importance, providing habitat for migratory birds and fish. Effective treatment helps protect these sensitive environments from nutrient pollution and pathogens.
Frequently asked questions
Clitheroe STW is located on Henthorn Road in Clitheroe, Ribble Valley, Lancashire, England.
The plant serves approximately 21,265 people in the Ribble Valley area.
Treated wastewater from Clitheroe STW is discharged into the River Ribble catchment, which flows to the Irish Sea.
As a UK plant, Clitheroe STW operates under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size.
For a population of around 21,000, secondary biological treatment is standard, including processes like activated sludge or trickling filters to reduce organic pollutants.
Nearby plants