We’re working to improve the water quality of the River Eden by investing in the infrastructure in Appleby.

What will our work involve?

We will replace the current storm overflow chamber with a 4.8m x 3.1m x 1.6m tank. The tank stores storm water when we have heavy rainfall, preventing our system from being overloaded. It houses a screen to stop any debris or unflushable items being passing through the overflow in times of heavy rainfall. When constructed, the tank requires access for inspections and cleaning. As part of this work, we’ll also be upsizing our pipe which will allow 10m3 of additional storage.



This work is all part of United Utilities’ Big North West Upgrade; the largest investment in water and wastewater infrastructure across the North West for a century. We’re spending more than £13bn to protect and enhance over 500km of rivers, lakes and bathing waters whilst safeguarding drinking water supplies for millions of customers.

Why do we need storm overflows?

Storm overflows have been a feature of the sewer systems for over 150 years acting as a pressure relief valve to protect homes and businesses from the risk of flooding when there’s too much rainfall.