Feasibility study backs £3.6bn tunnel to clean Windermere

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 10:32 · Archive

A feasibility study found it is technically possible to stop wastewater and highway runoff from entering Windermere.

A feasibility study has concluded that stopping wastewater and highway runoff from entering Windermere is technically possible. The study, part of the 'Only Rainwater into Windermere' project, sets out a 100-year vision to protect the lake through one of the UK's most ambitious freshwater restoration programmes. It proposes a future where only rainwater enters the lake, with all wastewater and highway runoff removed from its catchment.

The study was developed over 15 months by a coalition of regulators, local authorities, community groups, environmental campaigners and United Utilities. After assessing more than 70 options, it identified a catchment-wide approach as essential for addressing the environmental and climate pressures facing Windermere. The report calls for a transformational overhaul of the wastewater system, noting that existing infrastructure cannot meet future needs.

The study warns that rising temperatures and heavier rainfall will increase nutrient loading, algal blooms and ecological damage. Edward Twiddy, independent convener of the coalition, said the vision would improve resilience, adapt to a changing climate, protect a 'globally important environment' and support sustainable growth in the Lake District economy. Louise Beardmore, chief executive of United Utilities, said the 'unprecedented coalition' behind the work made it extraordinary.

How it is being reported

• £3.6bn tunnel could clean up Windermere's sewage problemA new report has found it is technically possible to stop wastewater and highway runoff from entering Windermere.Westmorland Gazette · 21 Oct, 10:00
• £3.6bn tunnel could clean up Windermere's sewage problemA new report has found it is technically possible to stop wastewater and highway runoff from entering Windermere.NW Evening Mail · 21 Oct, 10:00

In this story: Windermere · Only Rainwater into Windermere · United Utilities · Edward Twiddy · Louise Beardmore · Lake District

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