Jersey’s Sewage Network Capacity to Increase with Rainfall Separation Project

A lead engineer has stated that a project designed to separate rainfall from Jersey’s sewage network is expected to “increase capacity and provide additional resilience”. This initiative, located at Lower Park, commenced in September and involves the installation of a new pipe beneath Victoria Avenue. Tom Le Gallais, who serves as the government’s lead engineer, reported that the amount of sewage processed at the Bellozanne treatment works reached 60,000 cubic metres during the winter period. This figure contrasts with approximately 25,000 cubic metres typically received in the summer months. He explained, “The purpose of this project is about separating rainfall from the sewage network so rainwater goes straight out to sea.” Le Gallais further added that the initiative involves “installing a new outfall which can be utilised for future developments.” Mr. Le Gallais also mentioned that his team has collaborated with the design team for the new hospital to guarantee that the updated system will offer the required connections for the Overdale site. According to Mr. Le Gallais, a new reinforced concrete pipe, measuring 1.2m (3.9ft) in diameter, is slated for installation under Victoria Avenue. He clarified, however, that the project was not “necessarily to replace” the existing infrastructure. He elaborated, stating, “It’s about building for the future in terms of future growth and also more extreme weather events.” Constable Andy Jehan, the Minister for Infrastructure, commented that separating a greater volume of surface water from sewage would reduce the amount requiring processing at sewage treatment facilities. He also stated, “I think that landowners can also help us with this flash flooding by keeping their land clean,” adding, “There is a lot of watercourses that haven’t been maintained over many years.” Jehan indicated that this new upgrade is designed to manage surface water originating from Westmount, which will benefit the new hospital development. He further noted its capability to handle surface water from First Tower and, potentially, from St Helier at a later stage. Engineers involved in the sewer system project anticipate its completion by the close of the current year.