Duplex Reed Bed and Stormwater Bypass for a Six-Bedroom Property

Overview

Hillside House had a grossly undersized septic tank systematically blinding its soakaway. A stormwater culvert connected to the foul drains was making the situation worse. WCI Water & Wastewater Engineers designed a reed bed scheme that managed foul drainage and stormwater separately.

The Challenge

A package treatment plant could not be guaranteed with uncontrolled stormwater entering the system – no manufacturer can provide a performance warranty in those conditions. The solution needed to handle both flows separately.

The WCI Solution

A duplex reed bed scheme was installed with a 3,000-litre primary tank for foul drainage only. The stormwater culvert was diverted via a bypass pipe to a seasonal pond and soakaway. The 120m² duplex reed bed is membrane-lined with a geotech sub-base, planted with Phragmites, Typha and Flag Iris.

The Outcome

The property has a fully compliant separate foul and surface water system with a natural reed bed established as permanent landscape.

To discuss your installation or groundworks project, contact WCI today.