An Update on Wastewater Infrastructure Following Heavy Rainfall

With around 40 consecutive days of rainfall in 2026 so far, it has been an exceptionally wet start to the year in Newbury and West Berkshire. Many of you are understandably concerned about the impact of sustained and heavy rainfall on our water network. 

In light of these concerns, I recently wrote to Thames Water asking for an update on the condition and performance of wastewater and stormflow infrastructure earlier this month. I have now received a response and wanted to share the key points.  

Flooding 

Thames Water reports that there have been no recent flooding issues in previous areas of concern such as Hambridge lane, Pike Street, and Newport Road. This follows recent improvement works.  

To manage heavy rainfall around Newbury Station, they have deployed tankers to manage water flow. Similarly, in Lambourn, filter units have been installed to monitor groundwater levels and protect residents from flooding. 

Sewage 

Thames Water assures me that their sewage treatment works are under pressure but coping. However, their Boxford plant is awaiting an equipment upgrade. In the meantime, tankers are being used to remove sewage for treatment, causing some disruption to residents.

While I am pleased to know that there are no major issues being reported across the constituency, I, like many of you, am alarmed by recent reports on the scale of Thames Water’s illegal sewage dumping.  

That is why I will keep holding Thames Water to account, raising the issue in Parliament and meeting with local agencies, environment groups and residents to understand the impact of our failing water infrastructure on our communities. 

If you have any concerns relating to wastewater blockages or flooding, you can report them directly to Thames Water on their website, on WhatsApp or by phone: 0800 316 9800.