Overview
READING STW serves 201,000 people in Reading, England. The plant operates under the UK's implementation of the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, ensuring regulatory compliance for large agglomerations.
READING STW is a major wastewater treatment facility located in Reading, England, serving a population of approximately 201,000. Situated near the River Thames, the plant plays a crucial role in managing wastewater from this large urban area in Berkshire. As a large agglomeration serving over 150,000 people, the plant is subject to stringent regulatory requirements under the UK's transposition of the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). This directive mandates secondary treatment as a minimum, with tertiary treatment required for discharges into sensitive areas. The plant's capacity and treatment processes are designed to meet these standards, protecting the local water environment. The treated effluent is discharged into the River Thames, which flows through London and into the North Sea. The Thames supports diverse aquatic life and is a vital ecological corridor. The plant's operations are critical for maintaining water quality in this major river system, particularly given the high population density and industrial activity in the region.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the River Thames, which flows through southern England into the North Sea via the Thames Estuary. The Thames supports a rich ecosystem, including migratory fish species and diverse birdlife. The river is also a key water resource for London and surrounding areas. Effective wastewater treatment is essential to prevent nutrient enrichment and protect downstream habitats.
Frequently asked questions
READING STW is located at A33, Whitley, Reading, England, RG2 0GH, United Kingdom, near the River Thames.
The treated effluent from READING STW is discharged into the River Thames, which flows through London and into the North Sea.
READING STW protects the River Thames and its downstream ecosystems, including the Thames Estuary and the North Sea.
As a large agglomeration serving over 150,000 people, READING STW operates under the UK's implementation of the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, which requires secondary treatment and potentially tertiary treatment for sensitive areas.
For a plant serving 201,000 people in the UK, typical treatment includes secondary biological treatment, and often tertiary treatment such as nutrient removal, to meet regulatory standards for large agglomerations.
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