Septic Smart

For many of us, the world of sewerage has long been something of a mystery. Waste disappears down sinks, toilets and drains as if by magic, only coming to mind when something goes wrong. In rural areas, however, the picture has often been quite different, with many properties not connected to the main sewer network and instead relying on their own systems.

These properties have used private ‘off-mains’ sewage systems due to location, the cost of connection, or other practical constraints. While systems vary in how they store, treat and discharge waste, all require regular emptying and maintenance by specialist companies. When correctly sized, installed and managed, they have continued to provide an effective solution for many rural communities.

When problems have occurred, however, the impacts have been significant, ranging from property damage and legal penalties to harm to our fragile chalk streams. Poorly maintained systems have had the potential to contaminate these rare habitats, affecting water quality and biodiversity.

Through the Septic Smart project, part of the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme, support has been provided to off-mains users to help them better understand and manage their systems. Although the project has now concluded, a range of guidance and resources remains available to help maintain good practice and protect our rivers into the future.