Northumbrian Water is starting work today on a £5 million upgrade to Consett sewage treatment works, near Ebchester.

The company said the scheme, which involves upgrading various assets and processes, is essential due to recent and predicted growth within the catchment area of the site.

Consett sewage treatment works currently treats ten million litres of wastewater every day from customers in Blackhall Mill, Castleside, Chopwell, Consett, Ebchester, Hamsterley, Leadgate, Medomsley, Moorside and Shotley Bridge.

Dean Thompson, project manager for the upgrade, said:

“The catchment area served by Consett sewage treatment works has experienced significant new development in recent years, which is set to continue. The upgrade will provide additional treatment capacity to ensure we can accommodate this growth.”

The project will take one year to complete.