We are fortunate to work in some very special locations and the Cothelstone Estate, in a designated National Landscapes (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) was no exception. Home to generations of the same family since 1791, the archetypal stone manor house and pretty cottages are steeped in history.
Many of the properties were served by original septic tank and drainage arrangements and needed some modernising to bring their sewage treatment up to date. Redevelopment of the estate was on the cards, but it was clear that an overhaul of the private drainage and septic systems was required before work could commence.
Fortunately, in 2023, the estate owners were amongst the first to register for free septic tank upgrades as part of WCI’s scheme to address nutrient neutrality in Somerset. With eight properties on the estate requiring an upgrade, it made sense to manage the process as one with the aim to maximise our efficiencies and minimise the disruption caused by bringing in our materials and machinery.
As with all upgrades under the phosphate mitigation scheme, there followed months of preparations before we broke ground with the installations. Our project engineer conducted comprehensive property surveys to assess the existing drainage, the siting of the sewage treatment plants, and the scope of the works involved. With a range of properties on the list, the requirements varied hugely – we’d be installing sewage treatment plants that ranged from 5 person to 110 pe systems – and each tenant would need to be briefed to ensure smooth execution of the projects.
Additionally, we would need to conduct remedial work to separate the surface water from the foul network at some sites.
Over the course of almost two months, the existing septic systems were upgraded to GRAF one2clean sewage treatment plants, chosen because of their superior effluent quality – particularly in reducing phosphate levels. The new systems were commissioned by a WCI British Water Accredited and GRAF Trained Service Engineers and the installation site reinstated to a high level.
Not only have the Estate done their bit to reduce nutrient pollution but now benefits from modern day sewage treatment facilities that comply with the Environmental Permitting Regulations.
‘WCI have been brilliant to work with, from our initial site visit through to the delivery of the projects. The guys working on site were professional and did a great job. I would highly recommend WCI to everyone.’
Hermione Warmington
