Southern Water calls off pumping water into River Test

This decision comes after mounting opposition from residents concerned about the ecological impact.

As previously reported, Southern Water was planning to flush out water to the River Test at various locations to avoid water and sewage start entering people’s homes.

The Test and Itchen Association members at Chilbolton Cow Common to protest the pumping of wastewater (Image: Contributed)

The areas included Longparish, Appleshaw and Chilbolton Cow Common, which is an SSSI.

The residents in Chilbolton Cow Common area were initially informed that the pumping would start on Thursday, January 25, as the company set up temporary systems.

However, this was postponed after a community backlash.

READ MORE: Southern Water plans to pump wastewater into River Test

Southern Water has now confirmed that it has listened to local councillors and other stakeholders and decided to not pump water in this area.

Instead, it will be using water tankers to carry excess water away to nearby treatment works.

Alex Saunders, head of wastewater networks at Southern Water, said: “We’ve listened to local councillors and other stakeholders and will not be installing ‘over pumping’ to prevent homes flooding. Instead, we will rely on tankers to transport excess wastewater away to treatment works. We’re sorry for the noise and disruption this 24 hour operation may cause.”

SEE ALSO: Appleshaw resident voices concerns over Southern Water pumping

Following testing of emergency preparations, pipes and pumping equipment have been removed from the site.

Southern Water said the Infiltration Reduction Plan which called for pumping of groundwater from sewers into the River Test was drawn up in cooperation with stakeholders following the floods of 2012.

However, the company decided to not enact it at this time.