Severn Trent has unveiled a major £24m investment project for Worcester Sewage Treatment Works – including cutting phosphates to boost river health.

The water company has drawn up a series of improvements to boost efficiency and capacity at the site, including a new chemical dosing rig, mechanical sludge thickener, pump station and final settlement tank.

And a key part of the investment programme is removing more phosphates from the final effluent – the fully treated wastewater – which will boost river health.

Kaung Set Thar, 27, is Severn Trent’s project manager for the two-year scheme which is being led by sub-contractor partner Kier.

The avid table tennis player joined the water company two years ago and said: “This is a major investment programme for Worcestershire which we’re delighted to be delivering with our partners Kier.

“Key benefits of the project will be to increase capacity and efficiency at the site, plus a reduction in phosphates in the final effluent before it’s released. That will help to further improve the health of our rivers.

“For our customers, the benefits of this scheme will deliver enhance local river quality and better environmental sustainability in Worcestershire region.”

Kaung joined Severn Trent two years ago from his previous role at Network Rail, having gained a Masters degree in Project Management from Queens University of Belfast.

He said: “I was new to the water industry when I joined but I have really enjoy helping deliver complex and challenging projects, which give me plenty of opportunities to grow my project management career.

“I really take pride in seeing my projects come online in real life and I enjoy how they can contribute to environmental improvements.”

Construction firm Kier is our partner in the scheme which is expected to be completed at the Bromwich Road site in 2027.

Rob Campbell, Kier’s Operations Director in Natural Resources, Nuclear & Networks, said: "We are delighted to continue our longstanding partnership with Severn Trent through this significant upgrade to the Worcester Sewage Treatment Works.

“This project underscores our commitment to delivering essential infrastructure that enhances environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.

“By leveraging our extensive experience and collaborative approach, we aim to ensure the successful delivery of these critical improvements for the communities we serve."