United Utilities is progressing its plans to construct a £30 million underground stormwater storage tank at Wavertree Park in Liverpool and help reduce flooding in the local area.

The tank will hold storm water to reduce pressure on the sewer network during intense rainfall events, returning storm water back into the sewers for onward treatment once there is enough capacity in the network.

The tank, which will hold 7 million litres of rainwater, will be approximately 29 metres in diameter and 17 metres to the base from ground level. All activity to construct the new underground storage tank, associated pipework, two control kiosks and two pressure relief columns will take place within a temporary and secure fenced area of the park

United Utilities is currently working with Liverpool City Council to ensure as much access to the park as possible is maintained for the public during the construction works. The tank is due to be completed, and the section of park reinstated, in 2028.

The water company has completed the first phase of work to carry out ground investigation activity. The next phase will involve setting up the working area ready for the tank construction activity to begin.

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The main construction activity is expected to finish by spring/summer 2028 and the final reinstatement will be carried out by the end of 2028 in agreement with Liverpool City Council Parks. Ground levels will not change and the grassed area will be reinstated over the area of the tank (with the exception of the access covers which will be flush with the ground level).

United Utilities has also undertaken a Preliminary Ecological Assessment which has identified the potential for nesting birds and roosting bats. The utility now needs to finalise the design proposals and then undertake further surveys as required, following advice from a suitably licenced ecologist.

United Utilities says it will adopt the recommended mitigation as advised by the licenced ecologist, and will comply with all relevant ecological legislation.

The water company is holding a drop-in session this afternoon from 3pm until 7pm where members of the project team will be available to speak to residents and answer questions about the work planned in Wavertree Park. Location is Elm Hall Drive Methodist Church Hall, Liverpool, L18 1LE