Overview
EASTLEIGH STW serves approximately 97,000 people in Eastleigh, Hampshire, England. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the local water environment, contributing to the protection of the River Itchen and Southampton Water.
EASTLEIGH STW is a wastewater treatment plant located in Eastleigh, Hampshire, England, serving a population of around 97,233. It is situated near the River Itchen, a chalk stream of high ecological importance, and lies within 50 km of the coast, ultimately discharging into Southampton Water. As a plant serving a large agglomeration (over 15,000 people), it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment as a minimum. Given the sensitivity of the receiving waters, tertiary treatment may also be expected to reduce nutrient loads and protect aquatic life. The plant's discharge enters the River Itchen, which flows into Southampton Water, a major estuary on the south coast of England. This estuary supports diverse bird populations and is an important area for fish spawning and nursery grounds. The treatment plant plays a key role in maintaining water quality in this ecologically sensitive region.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the River Itchen, a classic chalk stream renowned for its biodiversity, including salmon and brown trout. The river flows into Southampton Water, a large estuary that supports important bird populations and commercial fisheries. Protecting this water body from nutrient pollution is critical for maintaining its ecological health and recreational value.
Frequently asked questions
EASTLEIGH STW is located in Eastleigh, Hampshire, England, United Kingdom, near the River Itchen.
EASTLEIGH STW serves approximately 97,233 people, classifying it as a large agglomeration under EU regulations.
The plant discharges treated effluent into the River Itchen, which flows into Southampton Water, a major estuary on the south coast of England.
As a UK plant serving over 15,000 people, EASTLEIGH STW operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which mandates secondary treatment and potentially tertiary treatment in sensitive areas.
For agglomerations of this size in the UK, secondary treatment is standard, with tertiary treatment often required for nutrient removal to protect sensitive water bodies like chalk streams.
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