Overview
Melksham STW serves approximately 18,700 people in Melksham, Wiltshire, England. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the local river system, contributing to the Bristol Avon catchment.
Melksham STW is a wastewater treatment plant serving the town of Melksham in Wiltshire, England. It handles wastewater from a population of around 18,700, making it a medium-sized facility under UK regulatory classifications. The plant is located near the River Avon, which flows through the region. As a UK wastewater treatment plant, Melksham STW operates under the Water Industry Act 1991 and is regulated by the Environment Agency. For a population of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required, with possible tertiary treatment depending on local environmental sensitivity. The plant's discharge is subject to strict permit conditions to protect water quality. The treated effluent from Melksham STW is discharged into a local watercourse that feeds into the Bristol Avon, eventually reaching the Severn Estuary. This catchment supports diverse aquatic life and is important for regional biodiversity. The plant plays a key role in maintaining the health of the river system and downstream environments.
Environmental context
Melksham STW discharges into the River Avon (Bristol Avon), which flows through Wiltshire and into the Severn Estuary. The estuary is a major ecological feature supporting migratory fish and bird populations. The plant's operations help protect water quality in this sensitive catchment, which is subject to nutrient management and conservation efforts.
Frequently asked questions
Melksham STW is located on Bradford Road, Broughton Gifford, near Melksham in Wiltshire, England.
Melksham STW serves approximately 18,700 people in the Melksham area.
The plant discharges treated effluent into a local watercourse that feeds into the River Avon (Bristol Avon), which flows to the Severn Estuary.
Melksham STW operates under the Water Industry Act 1991 and is regulated by the Environment Agency. Discharge permits are issued to ensure compliance with water quality standards.
For a population of this size, secondary treatment is standard, with tertiary treatment often required in sensitive catchments to reduce nutrients and protect receiving waters.
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