The second phase of the construction of a new sewer under the A65 in Ilkley has begun.
Yorkshire Water’s new sewer aims to reduce the frequency and volume of storm overflows into the river Wharfe during periods of heavy rain.
Initial work at Yorkshire Water’s treatment works has been completed and the project has moved into the second phase.
Trenchless technology will be used 5-8m underground, with boring machinery controlled remotely to keep disruption to a minimum while laying 800m of new sewer.
Yorkshire Water’s education teams will also be visiting local schools to explain what is happening as part of the project and providing education on wastewater processes and what should and shouldn’t be flushed down toilets or poured down sinks.
Ben Roche, director of wastewater at Yorkshire Water, said:
“This project, which forms a major part of our investment in Ilkley, is progressing well and we’re pleased to be entering the second major phase.
“We’ve worked very closely with Bradford Council highways teams to keep the disruption for our customers to a minimum. As a result, we’re making use of trenchless technology, with equipment boring the hole and laying the sewer remotely, preventing the need to dig up the A65 to complete this work. For the majority of the project, there will be limited signs of our activity underground.
“Laying a new sewer to accommodate higher flows of wastewater during periods of heavy and prolonged rainfall will ultimately reduce the number and volume of discharges from Rivadale CSO, helping to improve water quality in the Wharfe.
The project is expected to be completed in January 2024.
