New project underway to deliver major water quality improvements in West Cumbria

United Utilities has started work on a project to improve water quality in Scad Beck near Maryport. 

The company is investing £1.7m at Eastland Farm near Crosby, Maryport to reduce the number of times that the storm overflow in the area operates. 

Work has started on the construction of a new 65-metre box culvert sewer, providing 130m³ of stormwater storage capacity. Once complete, the scheme is expected to reduce storm overflow operations into Scad Beck by 96%, representing a major step forward in protecting the watercourse.

The investment builds on £1.4 million already delivered in the Maryport area, including recent upgrades at Bullgill Wastewater Treatment Works, where additional storage has helped reduce overflows and improve water quality in the River Ellen.

Joss Low, Delivery Manager at United Utilities, said: “Investing in projects like this at Eastland Farm is about delivering lasting improvements for the communities we serve around Maryport. By significantly reducing storm overflow activity into Scad Beck, we’re helping to protect and enhance the local environment, supporting healthier rivers and wildlife.

“This work builds on the progress we’ve already made in the area and is part of a wider programme of investment that will continue to improve water quality across the catchment.”

Looking ahead, United Utilities plans to invest a further £9.8 million over the next four years across the local area. This will include sewer upgrades, additional storage and operational improvements to further reduce spills and enhance water quality across the catchment.