A series of infrastructure projects aimed at improving river water quality is progressing across Bury, Prestwich and Whitefield in Greater Manchester. United Utilities is investing more than £34 million in three schemes designed to reduce the frequency of storm overflow discharges into the River Irwell and its tributaries.
The largest investment is taking place in Bury, where £28 million is being allocated to upgrades at the town’s wastewater treatment works. The project includes the construction of two storm tanks, each with a capacity of 3,000 cubic metres, and is scheduled for completion in June 2026.
In Prestwich, a £2.5 million initiative is underway to improve water quality in Prestwich Clough and the River Irwell. The works involve building a 120 cubic metre underground storage tank near Clifton Road, with completion expected in autumn 2026.
Meanwhile, in Whitefield, a £3.7 million project includes the construction of a 40 cubic metre storm tank within the grounds of Whitefield Golf Club, alongside sewer network enhancements in a nearby residential area. This scheme is also due for completion in autumn, with final site reinstatement planned before year-end.
Collectively, the projects will add more than 6,100 cubic metres of storage capacity to the local sewer system, contributing to reduced overflow events during periods of heavy rainfall. These efforts build on earlier investments in nearby areas, including Ramsbottom, which have already contributed to lowering spill incidents into regional watercourses.
Chris Borradaile, Wastewater Services Director for United Utilities, said: “These three projects mark another important step in improving water quality in the River Irwell and its tributaries around Bury. By investing in extra storm storage and targeted sewer upgrades, we can significantly reduce the number of times storm overflows operate, something we know our customers want to see.
“This work builds on the progress we are already making across Bury and Greater Manchester, and forms part of the largest programme wastewater investment for a century in the North West.”
The programme forms part of a broader £13 billion investment plan over five years to protect rivers, lakes and bathing waters, while ensuring reliable drinking water supplies.
