A major £17 million upgrade at Wessex Water’s Keynsham Water Recycling Centre is now fully operational following a two-year enhancement project designed to support population growth and improve environmental protection across the Bath–Bristol corridor.
The scheme, delivered by sister company YTL Construction UK, significantly expands the treatment capability of the Broadmead Lane site. Construction began in 2023 and concluded earlier this summer, followed by a commissioning phase to bring the upgraded processes into full service.
The investment increases treatment capacity by more than 40%, allowing up to 208 litres of sewage per second to be processed before being safely returned to the environment. The enhanced capability supports the needs of Keynsham’s growing population and helps protect nearby watercourses, including the River Avon.
Key elements of the upgrade
- New phosphorus removal equipment and improved flow measurement.
- A 17-metre diameter primary settlement tank.
- Upgraded power systems and a new generator for improved resilience.
- A 15-metre diameter storm tank capable of holding more than 300,000 litres.
The storm tank provides essential storage during heavy rainfall, temporarily holding excess diluted wastewater when the sewer network becomes overwhelmed. The water is later returned for full treatment, helping to reduce storm-related discharges.
Ashlea Lane, Director of Water Recycling at Wessex Water, said: “The completion of this project reflects our commitment towards protecting the environment while supporting the growth of communities like Keynsham. By increasing treatment capacity and introducing new technologies to reduce pollution, we’re ensuring that this infrastructure is fit for the future and supports our wider ambition to improve water quality across the region.”
Kelvin Brick, Senior Programme Manager at YTL Construction, added: “This was an important project, with our team working hard to plan and install new equipment within a confined site, ensuring the centre will be fit for purpose as Keynsham continues to grow.”
Broader regional investment
The Keynsham upgrade precedes the completion of a separate £35 million expansion at Wessex Water’s Saltford Water Recycling Centre, which will increase capacity to treat wastewater from Bath and surrounding areas. The Saltford project is expected to finish early next year.
Under its 2025–30 business plan, Wessex Water has proposed:
- £580 million over five years to reduce storm overflows — increasing monthly investment from £3 million to £8.5 million.
- £820 million to improve river and coastal water quality, including further removal of phosphorus, ammonia and nitrogen from wastewater.
Wessex Water continues to lead the sector in transparency, being the first UK water company to publish daily storm overflow information for bathing waters and recreation sites. Data is shared with councils, environmental groups and the public through the company’s Coastwatch platform.
