Severn Trent has completed sustainable upgrades at Hungarton sewage treatment works in Leicestershire.
The £2.4 million project is part of Severn Trent’s Green Recovery programme.
To comply with new standards set out in the Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP), the upgrades include the installation of a new nature-based solution that utilises tertiary and reactive media beds to improve effluent quality.
Plus, a tighter phosphorus discharge permit came into effect in March 2025, and as such, the site-wide upgrades will ensure long-term compliance, whilst setting new sustainability standards through a low-energy, chemical-free approach to wastewater treatment.
The use of reed beds and reactive media beds reduce operational carbon emissions, require minimal maintenance and enhance biodiversity by creating natural habitats, delivering a passive nature-based solution that aligns with Severn Trent’s environmental and carbon reduction goals.
The upgrades also include improved quality monitoring capabilities, an interstage pump station and new site laboratory for testing purposes.
The work – which began in August 2023 – was carried out in partnership with engineering experts Avove.
Severn Trent’s wider Green Recovery programme is a £566 million investment to support the country’s green economic recovery and help improve the environment and provide community benefits.
Kate Radford, Lead Project Manager at Severn Trent, said: “We have been collaborating with Avove for the past two years, working closely with the delivery and site management teams to get another one of our Green Recovery projects over the line.
“It’s great to see it all come together and I’ve been thoroughly impressed by the collaboration and commitment shown by the entire team.”
Avove spokesman John Rolls added: “As a company we are committed to delivering innovative non-infrastructure solutions, working collaboratively with our clients, delivery teams and partners to ensure a seamless process, addressing key challenges and surpassing project objectives at every turn.
“The upgrades delivered at Hungarton Sewage Treatment Works have been no exception, and it’s pleasing to see this commitment has led to a successful completion.
“All phases of the project aligned with Severn Trent’s organisational goals of sustainability, biodiversity and environmental responsibility, whilst the solution itself guarantees long-term compliance with regulatory requirements and delivers improvements to effluent quality as intended.
“I’d like to thank the entire delivery team for their hard work and commitment, as well as Hungarton residents who have been patient throughout its delivery.”
