Mildenhall STW - Wastewater Treatment Plant in West Suffolk, England

Mildenhall STW is a wastewater treatment plant located on Ferry Drove in West Suffolk, Suffolk, England. It serves a population of around 15,955, placing it in the medium agglomeration category under UK regulations. The plant is situated inland, approximately 50 km from the coast, and its treated effluent is discharged into the River Lark catchment, part of the Great Ouse basin. As a UK wastewater facility, Mildenhall STW operates under the Water Industry Act 1991 and is regulated by the Environment Agency. For a plant serving this population size, secondary treatment is typically required, with potential for tertiary treatment if the receiving water is sensitive. It is expected to meet the standards set by the Urban Waste Water Treatment (England and Wales) Regulations 1994, which transpose the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive. The treated effluent from Mildenhall STW ultimately drains into the River Lark, a tributary of the Great Ouse, which flows into The Wash, a large estuary and ecologically important area. The Wash supports diverse bird populations and is a key site for migratory waterfowl. The plant's discharge contributes to the water quality in this sensitive downstream environment, requiring careful management to protect aquatic life and habitats.

Mildenhall STW discharges into the River Lark, a tributary of the Great Ouse, which flows into The Wash, a large estuary on the east coast of England. The Wash is an ecologically sensitive area supporting diverse bird populations, including migratory waterfowl, and is important for fisheries. The plant's effluent must meet strict quality standards to protect this downstream environment from nutrient enrichment and pollution.