New GRP Chamber for the National Trust

When the existing treatment plant at Bodiam Castle was overwhelmed due to the high water table and issues with foul waste contamination, the National Trust turned to Willow Pumps for a sustainable solution.

Working alongside an independent wastewater consultant, we designed a system to control the volume and condition of the waste entering the treatment works. Our solution included above-ground storage tanks and a new pumping station—ensuring compliance while preserving the historical integrity of the site.

The client was experiencing repeated issues with the existing treatment plant being overwhelmed due to the high water table. They were also struggling with compliance on the treatment plant, partly due to this issue and partly due to the pollution of foul waste with grease from the busy pub nearby using the facility for their wastewater treatment.

Working alongside an independent wastewater consultant, a system was designed to allow the volume and condition of the waste entering the treatment works to be controlled using above ground storage tanks and a new pumping station.

Bodiam Castle is an area of historic interest, so an archeological dig was carried out during the excavation for the pumping station to check for any items of interest.

The high water table in this location required constant groundwater management through diesel overpumping during the excavation work.

The castle is also a live public site so public safety had to be carefully managed. We were also aware that the storage tanks could overwhelm the new pumping station in the event of a failure as they would continue to fill, so a high level alarm was installed as a build specification in the control panel.

Willow Pumps carried out all the necessary civils work for this job, and then successfully installed the new GRP pump chamber with two above ground 10 metre³ storage tanks, all associated drainage changes and the installation of a passive below ground grease trap.

Facing challenges with wastewater treatment, compliance, or site-specific constraints? Willow Pumps offers bespoke solutions that are designed to meet your unique needs. From historic sites like Bodiam Castle to modern developments, our experienced team delivers reliable, efficient, and compliant systems. Get in touch today to find out how we can help.