Overview
WICKFORD STW serves Chelmsford, England, treating wastewater for approximately 37,456 people. The plant operates under the UK's regulatory framework, discharging into local waterways.
WICKFORD STW is a wastewater treatment plant located near Chelmsford in Essex, England. It serves a population of approximately 37,456, placing it in the medium agglomeration category under UK and EU regulations. The facility is situated inland, more than 50 km from the coast, and its operations are part of the region's water management infrastructure. The plant operates under the UK's implementation of the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size. The designed capacity is 1.00 (likely in megaliters per day or similar units), indicating the plant's scale. Compliance with discharge standards is enforced by the Environment Agency. The treated effluent from WICKFORD STW is discharged into local watercourses that eventually drain into the River Crouch or the River Thames estuary. These waters support diverse aquatic life and are important for regional ecology. The plant plays a key role in protecting water quality in the Essex catchment area.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into local rivers that flow into the River Crouch and ultimately the Thames Estuary, a major ecological zone supporting fish, birds, and invertebrates. The estuary is a vital migratory corridor and nursery for marine species. Protecting water quality here is essential for maintaining biodiversity and supporting downstream habitats.
Frequently asked questions
WICKFORD STW is located near Chelmsford in Essex, England, at A130, Rettendon, Chelmsford, Essex, SS11 7RJ.
WICKFORD STW serves approximately 37,456 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under UK wastewater regulations.
Treated wastewater from WICKFORD STW is discharged into local watercourses that drain into the River Crouch and eventually the Thames Estuary.
WICKFORD STW operates under the UK's implementation of the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which mandates secondary treatment for agglomerations over 10,000 population equivalent.
For agglomerations of this size, the UK requires at least secondary treatment, which typically involves biological processes to reduce organic matter and suspended solids.
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