At the Bewl Water Treatment Works, a vital upgrade project is underway, aiming to enhance water supply reliability. The project, estimated at £61 million, is being led by Lewis Huston, a dedicated professional focused on improving operations within the treatment facility.
Key Issues and Improvements at Bewl Water Treatment Works
Huston highlights several challenges the facility faces. “We have a myriad of issues as a treatment works,” he states. Maintaining efficient processes is crucial for uninterrupted water supply. Daily logs in the control room track numerous faults, including valve failures and power outages, emphasizing the complexities of the undertaking.
Essential Upgrades Underway
The current upgrades address various operational concerns. Key initiatives include:
- Replacing failing valves on machinery for better functionality.
- Installing an uninterruptible power supply to enhance operational reliability.
- Implementing two new pumps that efficiently transport treated water to the Cottage Hill reservoir.
These upgrades are particularly important for building resilience in the water supply system.
Addressing Summer Supply Challenges
The urgency of these upgrades became evident during the summer of 2023. A prolonged heatwave led to critically low water levels in the treated water reservoir. As a result, thousands in Wadhurst, Rotherfield, and Mayfield faced water supply disruptions.
“It’s never nice waking up in the morning and seeing the company on the news,” Huston reflects on the situation. However, he remains committed to problem-solving. “I quite like solving problems and issues, and I want to be involved,” he adds.
With these dedicated efforts, the South East Water team is working diligently to ensure a steady tap flow for the communities they serve.
