Barhale is proud to announce the successful completion of the Cumberbatch Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) programme for Severn Trent, a vital environmental initiative aimed at improving river water quality in Stoke-on-Trent.

This transformative project tackled the challenge of intercepting combined sewer overflows by separating storm and foul flows and diverting them away from local watercourses. A key feature was the installation of a new storage tank to hold screened effluent during storm events, ensuring safe return to the foul system for proper treatment.

In the run-up to Christmas 2024, our team accelerated delivery to meet a critical regulatory deadline. To satisfy the Environment Agency’s screening requirements, we implemented an innovative dual-screening solution—combining a static wave screen with a mechanical screen—successfully achieving the ODI milestone on time.

Following this, Barhale focused on achieving contractual completion, including the redesign and relocation of the CSO due to constraints near a residential property. A 10m x 5m cofferdam was installed while maintaining flow through the existing 825mm main sewer, enabling construction to progress smoothly.

Final Works and Environmental Enhancements

The project reached completion with all finishing works delivered on schedule. These included fencing, surfacing, and concrete footways, along with the landscaping of the Public Open Space (POS) using site-won topsoil. Enhanced shrub planting and habitat management were also carried out to improve the area’s ecological value. To further support biodiversity, bird and bat boxes were installed within the on-site nature reserve, and two trees were planted to enrich the site’s long-term environmental value.

Community Engagement and Social Value

Beyond technical delivery, the Cumberbatch team built strong relationships with the local community. A local councillor visited the site to learn about the environmental improvements, while donations were made to Fegg Hayes Futures and Easter eggs were gifted to local children. One neighbouring resident showed their appreciation by baking and delivering homemade treats to the team each week—an incredible gesture that greatly boosted morale.

In return, Barhale’s Thomas Breakwell (Ganger/Site Supervisor, Northern Region) and Samuel Hemmings (General Operative, Northern Region) visited the neighbour to deliver a thank-you gift, share Easter eggs, and help with small repairs, including fixing a damaged fence panel and a child’s bike.

This project not only delivers lasting environmental and infrastructure improvements for Severn Trent but also showcases the power of collaborative working and meaningful community engagement.