17th Aug 2026 12:56
(Alliance News) - United Utilities Group PLC on Monday said it has completed a GBP1.3 million sewer improvement project in Manchester ahead of schedule, helping to improve water quality in the River Irk.
The Warrington, England-based water utility said the scheme disconnected surface water drainage from the existing combined sewer system at Aspin Lane, on the edge of Manchester's Green Quarter and NOMA district.
The project removed enough surface water from the combined network to prevent a storm overflow from operating, allowing it to be permanently sealed off.
Work began in June and was scheduled to take 19 weeks, though contractors completed the project ahead of schedule.
Emma Oakes, wastewater business lead for Greater Manchester, said: "We're delighted to have completed this important project ahead of schedule, delivering benefits for both our customers and the local environment sooner than planned.
"By disconnecting surface water from the combined sewer network, we've prevented this storm overflow from operating during wet weather, which will help to improve water quality in the River Irk."
The scheme forms part of the company's wider programme to improve rivers and waterways across northwest England.
United Utilities said it is investing more than GBP13 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure alongside more than 500 kilometres of rivers, lakes and bathing waters.
Shares in United Utilities were down 1.3% to 1,394.00 pence in the FTSE 100 in London on Monday afternoon.
By Eva Castanedo, Alliance News senior economics reporter
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