Investing in the delivery of new and upgraded infrastructure
Wastewater infrastructure projects
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1, UWW 2, UWW 7
Measure details
Improvements to existing, and development of new, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and sewage collection networks to address significant pressures, facilitate growth and achieve compliance with regulatory requirements.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Climate change adaptation
- Climate change mitigation
- Biodiversity
- Sustainability
- Communities
- Human health
Link to more information
Phosphorus Removal Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1
Measure details
Programme to upgrade WWTPs with phosphorus removal equipment to achieve phosphorus removal goals and emission limits specified in our wastewater discharge licences.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Biodiversity
Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1, UWW 5
Measure details
Programme to provide additional capacity at existing WWTPs in smaller towns and villages to cater for growth and development in line with national policy objectives while protecting the water environment.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Communities
Link to more information
Wastewater Network Programmes (multiple)
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1
Measure details
Programmes providing strategic wastewater network infrastructure and reducing infiltration and inflows entering the wastewater network in order to reduce impacts on the receiving water environment, facilitate future growth and development, ensure energy efficiency, and reduce sewer flooding of properties.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Flood mitigation
- Communities
- Sustainability
Link to more information
RBMP Enhanced Ambition Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 6
Measure details
Programme to upgrade 10no. WWTPs, and undertake detailed assessment of a further 20no. WWTPs, that have been identified as significant pressures that are impacting on water bodies. The upgrades include installation of integrated constructed wetlands (ICWs) in a number of locations as a nature-based solution for wastewater treatment.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Climate change mitigation
- Biodiversity
- Sustainability
- Communities
Link to more information
Untreated Agglomerations
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1, UWW 2
Measure details
List of WWTPs where we have committed to providing WWTPs to end the discharge of raw sewage to the environment. 50no. untreated agglomerations have been identified nationally. As of end 2024, treatment has been provided at 34no. agglomerations, construction is ongoing at a further 7no. agglomerations, and statutory permissions are being sought for the remainder.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Biodiversity
- Communities
- Human health
Link to more information
Shellfish Waters Implementation Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1, UWW 2, UWW 11
Measure details
Programme to provide ultraviolet disinfection, where required, of wastewater discharging to shellfish areas to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination, thus protecting human health and the shellfish industry.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Communities
- Human health
Sewer Rehabilitation Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 1
Measure details
Programme to upgrade and repair the national sewer network to address aging and deteriorated sewers and to reduce blockages, leaks, and pollution risks. By investing in modern technology and sustainable solutions, we ensure that communities benefit from an efficient, resilient wastewater network that supports growth and protects water quality.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Communities
Link to more information
Inlet Works and Storm Storage Programme
WAP Action Ref
Over-arching measure
Measure details
Programme to upgrade inlet works and provide new or additional storage infrastructure to improve capacity and treatment at WWTPs.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
Wastewater Licencing Programme
WAP Action Ref
UWW 4
Measure details
Annual programme to prepare and submit wastewater discharge authorisation applications associated with either capital investment projects or meeting regulatory requirements.
Multiple benefits
- Water quality
- Communities