Bioswales created at playing fields
The change has been made
We may still officially be in drought due to an unprecedented hot and dry summer, however attention is now turning to the wetter months.
The Met Office has already said there is a growing chance that the autumn and early winter will be wet and stormy due to El Niño currently developing across the Pacific Ocean.
The UK – including in Shropshire – has been hit by many storms during recent years, with torrential rain causing widespread floods.
To help reduce surface water flows getting into the sewer network during heavy rain, Severn Trent has turned to nature.
This includes having planted, landscaped areas known as bioswales at Round Hill Green playing fields in the Coton Hill area of Shrewsbury.
Preparatory work has also been carried out on a footpath, known locally as the Pig Trough, as part of a wider ongoing scheme to reduce sewer spills in the Flash Gardens.
It is part of Severn Trent’s wider investment in the town to upgrade the waste network. The firm says that, by slowing down or removing the flow of water during heavy rain, improvements such as the bioswales will protect nearby homes, open public spaces, and the local watercourses.
Along with members of the Up Sewage Creek group, Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley was able to hear more about the work during a recent visit.
“Improving our sewers to prevent spills and, ultimately, reducing the impact on the River Severn, is what we are all trying to achieve,” she said.
“It was good to see work that has been carried out, so far, and hear about Severn Trent’s plans for further investment to upgrade the town’s waste network.”
Sam Wilson, Severn Trent environmental engagement lead, added: “As part of our ongoing and frequent meetings with stakeholders, partners and our customers, we were delighted to discuss our investment plans for Shrewsbury, which include reducing pressure on sewers and improving river health, with Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley and members of the Up Sewage Creek group.
“This included visiting Round Hill Green playing fields and the area known as the Pig Trough which is part of ongoing work to reduce the impact on the River Severn.
“This is a great example of using nature to manage surface water, reducing risk of spills, while also supporting wildlife habitats to create a greener, more resilient space for the community.
“It is part of our ongoing investment to upgrade the waste network system, reduce sewage spills and the impact on the River Severn and we look forward to sharing our plans with the people of Shrewsbury as they develop.”