Overview
Northfleet STW serves approximately 52,000 people in Gravesham, England, as part of the UK's wastewater infrastructure. The plant operates under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations, which implement the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive
Northfleet STW is a wastewater treatment plant located in Northfleet, Gravesham, Kent, England. It serves a population of approximately 52,000, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under UK regulations. The plant is situated near the River Thames estuary, an ecologically important waterway. As a UK facility, Northfleet STW operates under the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations 1994, which transpose the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). For a population of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required, with additional nutrient removal if discharging into sensitive areas. The treated effluent from Northfleet STW discharges into the River Thames estuary, which flows into the North Sea. The Thames estuary supports diverse aquatic life and is a critical habitat for migratory birds and fish species. The plant plays a key role in protecting water quality in this sensitive coastal environment.
Environmental context
Northfleet STW discharges into the River Thames estuary, which flows into the North Sea. The Thames estuary is a dynamic and ecologically sensitive environment, supporting diverse aquatic life including fish, invertebrates, and migratory birds. The plant's operations help maintain water quality in this important coastal ecosystem, which is subject to nutrient enrichment pressures from urban and agricultural runoff.
Frequently asked questions
Northfleet STW is located on Grove Road in Northfleet, Gravesham, Kent, England, near the River Thames estuary.
Northfleet STW serves approximately 52,000 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under UK wastewater regulations.
The treated effluent from Northfleet STW is discharged into the River Thames estuary, which flows into the North Sea.
Northfleet STW operates under the UK Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations 1994, which implement the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive. These regulations require secondary treatment for plants serving populations over 10,000.
For a plant of this scale in the UK, secondary treatment is standard, with potential additional nutrient removal if discharging into sensitive areas like the Thames estuary.
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