Berwick Storm Overflows

As part of our commitment to improve the environment and protect the area’s rivers and coast, we are planning to invest up to £175m in the Berwick area. Over the next five years, we will focus on improving Berwick’s sewer network to reduce storm overflow spills and enhance the water quality in the River Tweed, Spittal Bathing Water and neighbouring coastal waters.

This will include a combination of:

1. Improvements to the existing sewer network including surface water separation, below ground storage tanks and screened overflow chambers.
2. Constructing sustainable drainage such as tree pits, rain gardens and nature-based attenuation basins to remove rainwater from the sewer network.
3. Improved levels of treatment at our Berwick Wastewater Treatment Works to improve the quality of water discharged to the River Tweed.

These works will provide additional benefits to Berwick by enhancing the public realm, providing new wildlife habitat and protecting heritage.

In the coming months, our team will be conducting surveys and ground investigations. You may notice more of our team members around, and at times, we will need to set up temporary traffic lights to complete our investigation work. We are working closely with Northumberland County Council to minimise any disruption and keep you informed.

Construction Start Date: Spring 2027

Estimated End Date: March 2030

Partners: Esh Stantec, Avove and Costain

Investment Value: £175 million

Area of Improvements