Barhale is playing a key role in tackling sewer overflow incidents as part of Severn Trent’s Rapid Action Taskforce Spills (RATS) scheme, an initiative aimed at reducing Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) discharges through fast, targeted interventions across the Midlands.

The £570,000 scheme spans multiple counties, including Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Worcestershire. Working in close partnership, Barhale and Severn Trent have deployed rapid-response teams to six priority locations: Baslow, Hathersage, Ashover, Bishampton, Long Whatton and South Wingfield.


At each site, bespoke solutions have been implemented following rapid scoping and assessment. Core to the work is the installation of Submerged Aerated Filters (SAFs) and Terra Tanks—temporary storage units that hold excess wastewater during heavy rainfall events, preventing pollution incidents by returning flows to the sewer network once capacity is restored.

Key upgrades across all sites include:

• Installation of SAF or Terra Tank units

• High-capacity feed pumps

• Control kiosks and associated ducting

• Electrical connections

• Hardstanding construction for infrastructure support

Each site received between one and three SAF units, complete with supporting pipework, kiosks, pumps, and duct boxes, ensuring the infrastructure is ready to respond effectively during peak flow events.

This programme forms part of Barhale and Severn Trent's broader commitment to reducing environmental impact and improving river water quality. By introducing agile infrastructure solutions at key points in the network, the project aims to significantly cut down on unplanned discharges and support long-term environmental resilience.