Christchurch water treatment works getting £85 million upgrade
Bournemouth Water say it'll help to improve drinking supply quality
£85 million of work has got underway to upgrade a water treatment works in Christchurch.
Bournemouth Water says the investment at Knapp Mill will see state-of-the-art equipment installed to improve the future quality of drinking water.
200 jobs are being created during the project which is expected to be completed in 2026.
Bournemouth Water has started a major £85 million upgrade to its Knapp Mill Water Treatment Works in Christchurch.
It follows further investment in their Alderney site, off Francis Avenue in Bournemouth, which is said to be 'progressing well' with completion scheduled for next year.
Richard Stanbrook, General Manager of Drinking Water Services at Bournemouth Water, said:
“We’re excited to get work underway at Knapp Mill as part of the major investment we’re making to upgrade our main treatment works in Bournemouth and Christchurch.
"This is a step change we have looked forward to. By investing in these cutting-edge treatment technologies now, we’re ensuring our water network is fit for the future, while also creating jobs and supporting the local economy.”
The project will help boost biodiversity too, thanks to improved landscaping around the Knapp Mill site, which will support local wildlife and enhance the natural environment along the River Avon.
The improved treatment process will also eliminate any slight changes some customers may have previously noticed in the colour of their water in past autumn/winter periods following heavy rainfall, which were linked to the unique New Forest landscape.