Howdon STW Upgrade

This project covers the design, construction and commissioning of the Howdon STW upgrade which is required to achieve the new consent requirements associated with the expected population growth. Howdon STW treats wastewater from the Local Authority areas of North Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead, South Tyneside, and parts of South Northumberland. Across these five Local Authority areas, Howdon STW serves a domestic population of around 840,000, with trade effluent flows increasing the population equivalent to around 945,000. As much of the sewer network within the catchment is combined, surface water also contributes to the Howdon flows. There are potential limitations on any new housing developments due to sewage pumping and treatment capacity within the Tyneside catchment. The most viable solution is to expand the treatment capacity at Howdon. The recommended solution comprises of: • Upgraded primary tanks • New storm tanks (with odour control) • Upgraded secondary treatment • New final settlement tanks • Upgraded UV treatment • Upgraded primary effluent and south bank pumping stations (improving the resilience of the site) Although there is insufficient space on the existing STW to fully complete this upgrade, there is a vacant site adjacent to Howdon which is available. Negotiations to purchase this site are at the final stage. Delivery of this project has been phased, with Phase One reflecting the minimum required scope for AMP7 Phase One (due to complete by April 2025): • Purchase of additional land to accommodate the above works • New storm tanks • Upgraded primary effluent and south bank pumping stations (improving resilience of the site) Phase Two (due to complete by April 2027): • Upgraded primary tanks • Upgraded secondary treatment • New final settlement tanks • Upgraded UV treatment The upgrade of Howdon STW will support NWG's corporate goals of having the best rivers and beaches in the country and, having zero pollutions as a result of our assets and operations, falling under the 'improving the environment' key theme. Value of Contract: £80,000,000 - £95,000,000