Coniston Water project aims to improve bathing water with new infrastructure
United Utilities moves forward on wastewater treatment upgrades
United Utilities is advancing plans to enhance water quality at Coniston Water in the Lake District with the development of new wastewater infrastructure.
The water company intends to upgrade the Coniston Wastewater Treatment Works, constructing a sewer overflow and storm tank pumping station on the western shore.
This initiative follows the Coniston Boating Centre being awarded Bathing Water status in 2024, necessitating regular water quality monitoring by the Environment Agency during the bathing season from 15th May to 30th June.
Despite receiving 'poor' and 'sufficient' ratings in 2024 and 2025 respectively, the upcoming infrastructure aims to address these issues, especially in dealing with storm overflows.
United Utilities submitted a planning application with the Lake District National Park Authority in August to waive the need for an environmental impact assessment (EIA), arguing the development would bring wider environmental benefits.
An LDNPA planning officer concurred, agreeing that no EIA was required.
Efforts to improve water quality include reducing storm overflow spills significantly and installing screens to separate solids.
The project aims to deliver enhanced environmental outcomes for the area, addressing concerns raised about existing wastewater outflows affecting Church Beck and adjacent bathing waters.
These upgrades represent a positive step towards ensuring cleaner, safer waters for local communities and visitors.