Storm tanks are like giant water butts that capture rain water across the region. And they’re really important for our water recycling centres as they provide our communities and environment flood resilience against extreme weather.

 

Climate change is contributing to more intense rainfall which is increasing the pressure on our region's rivers and the environment. But with the help of storm tanks, during heavy downpours, rainwater can be stored safely. Any water collected is then treated before returning it to nearby rivers, water courses and chalk streams. 

We treat over 1 billion litres of used water every day. And as part of our Get River Positive commitments is to ensure storm overflows and sewage treatment works do not harm rivers. But we know there’s more to be done. That’s why we’ve invested £100million to increase the capacity of our existing storm tanks, as well as building more at our sites across the region.  This means that larger volumes of rainfall, particularly during periods of extreme weather, can be collected and stored to help build long term flood resilience. Explore more ways we’re working to enhancing our regions rivers and biodiversity.

Despite seeing periods of heavy rainfall at certain periods throughout the year, we are one of the driest regions in the UK and our reservoirs and groundwater stores remain below average.  When it’s dry for so long, intense rainfall does not soak in as easily, causing surface water flooding. So making sure we invest in resilient infrastructure like storm tanks will help us during any weather event. Read more about the many ways we are protecting our regions future water resources.

We’re also redesigning how storm tanks are built, by planting new reed beds and plants to naturally clean the treated water through wetlands. So not only are they a low cost and low carbon solution, but they also enhance biodiversity. Find out more about how we’re helping the environment, wildlife and habitats with our wetlands here.