Three huge storm tanks costing a total of £2.3 million have been commissioned in mid-Essex to help stop sewage flooding into the rivers Blackwater, Brain and Pant.

One of the tanks, at Wethersfield Sewage Works, has already been put into use during the recent heavy rain. The 300 cubic metres, 80,000 gallons, £300,000 tank is helping to keep the River Pant free from overflow sewage.

The largest tank is at Park Drive, Maldon, has cost £1 million and was commissioned at the end of last month.

The tank, the size of two large houses, will take about 198,100 gallons and will stop floodwater overflow and sewage rushing into the River Blackwater.

A massive crane lowered the tank into place and nothing will be seen above ground except a section of concrete.

Anglian Water has been doing the work because of increased environmental standards and climate change.

The third tank, and other treatment tanks at Rayne has cost £1 million said Sara Rowland, Anglian Water spokeswoman.

She said the tank, at Rayne Sewage Works in the village was currently being commissioned and would help prevent sewage overflow running into the River Brain.

Published Tuesday, August 5, 2003

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