Severn Trent recently welcomed Sir Jeremy Wright MP, Cllr Nigel Rock and Cllr Ian Williams to the Napton sewage treatment works to learn how wastewater is recycled and to hear more about the company’s Get River Positive commitments. 

Get River Positive was launched in March, in collaboration with Anglian Water, to provide a clear and actionable response to calls for a revival of rivers in England. Central to the pledges is a commitment that work carried out by the company will ensure storm overflows and sewage treatment works do not harm rivers.   

Mr Wright, as well as Councillors Rock and Williams, were given a guided tour of the treatment works, and also visited a storm overflow on the River Stowe, discussing at length with Severn Trent about how it operates. 

Ed Preston, a Capital Programme Liaison Specialist from Severn Trent who hosted the visit, said: “During the visit we were able to show the sewage treatment process, including the reed beds we have on site which are a low energy and effective method of treating sewage.  

“It was also important to show our storm overflow outfall, and how our activities at Napton are not causing an impact to the environment – our reed beds also treat the water that is discharged by the overflow, so it doesn’t impact the Stowe. 

“We know how passionate the local community is to improve the local environment, so we’d like to thank Sir Jeremy, and Councillors Rock and Williams for taking the time to visit.”  

Sir Jeremy Wright, MP for Kenilworth and Southam, said: “Concern about the efficiency of our water network and in particular wastewater management is at a high level so I am grateful to Severn Trent for the useful discussions we have had on the measures they are taking, and for the opportunity to see some of them for myself.” 

Councillor Nigel Rock from Stratford-on-Avon Council, said: “Seeing this kind of operation first hand is always very interesting, as was hearing about the complexity of measurement of discharges that can be measured and how they can be reported.” 

Find out more about Get River Positive at www.getriverpositive.co.uk. 

Severn Trent's Get River Positive commitments 

1. Ensure storm overflows and sewage treatment works do not harm rivers 

2. Create more opportunities for everyone to enjoy our regions‘ rivers 

3. Support others to improve and care for rivers 

4. Enhance our rivers and create new habitats so wildlife can thrive 

5. Be open and transparent about our performance and our plans