Work Underway To Reduce Storm Overflows And Protect Chichester Harbour

Work is progressing on two major schemes designed to reduce storm overflows and improve water quality in and around Chichester Harbour.

Southern Water says the projects will benefit communities including Bosham, Emsworth, Nutbourne and Southbourne.

The work involves a range of engineering solutions aimed at reducing the amount of rainwater entering the sewer network – helping to cut storm overflow releases and protect the harbour’s environment.

New Surface Water Sewer In Emsworth

Teams are currently working in Gordon Road in Emsworth, where a new surface water sewer is being installed.

The project involves separating roof drainage from the foul sewer system so rainwater can flow into a new surface water network instead.

By reducing the amount of rainwater entering the combined sewer, the system is less likely to overflow during heavy rainfall.

More than 40 homes in Gordon Road have already agreed to have the work carried out, with the scheme expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Southern Water says similar projects are planned across the wider area over the next two years.

Wider Work Across The Harbour Area

Work in Bosham first began in 2024, with investigations and early improvements already completed.

New work has now started in Emsworth as part of the Thornham storm overflow reduction scheme.

Engineers are also sealing public and private sewers in Nutbourne to prevent groundwater entering the wastewater network, which helps reduce pressure on the School Lane pumping station.

The projects form part of Southern Water’s £1.5 billion Clean Rivers and Seas Plan, which aims to significantly cut storm overflow releases across Hampshire, Kent, Sussex and the Isle of Wight.

The work is also linked to the Three Harbours Partnership, which focuses on improving water quality, boosting biodiversity and supporting carbon capture across the region’s harbours.

Other projects aimed at improving water quality include sewer sealing work in the Lavant Valley, covering West Dean, East Dean, Singleton and Charlton.

A wetland has also been created at the Lavant Wastewater Treatment Works, which treats around 280 storm overflows each year.

Glenn McCubbin, a Pathfinder engineer at Southern Water, said the organisation is committed to reducing storm overflows and improving water quality in the harbour.

He said the schemes in Bosham and Emsworth show how a range of solutions – including separating rainwater from foul sewers and upgrading infrastructure – can help make a real difference.

Mr McCubbin added that working closely with local communities will be key to ensuring the projects deliver long-term environmental benefits.