The Thames Tideway Tunnel, known as London’s new super sewer, has officially been activated after the final connection was made between the existing structure.
The Thames Tideway Tunnel, more commonly known as London’s new super sewer, has officially been activated after the final connection was made between the existing structure and the new 25km tunnel. New Civil Engineer reports that this major breakthrough will substantially reduce the amount of sewage pollution in the River Thames.
The construction of the £4.5bn sewer has taken nine years and has necessitated the creation of over 20 deep shafts at sites across London. These shafts enabled the lowering of the tunnel boring machines underground, and will also be used to divert sewage flows.
The hugely ambitious project was necessitated by London’s outdated Victorian sewage system, which was designed for a city of four million people. Today, London has a population of over nine million. Releases of raw sewage into the Thames become a regular event during heavy rainfall, raising concerns about public health and biodiversity.
Tideway CEO Andy Mitchell said: “This is another significant step forward – with this final connection complete, the super sewer is fully up and running and protecting the Thames. Our next step is to test it in storm conditions – which is why we are keeping a close eye on the weather – and we will do this over the coming months.”
“We are at the start of a new chapter for London and its river. Our mission has always been about creating not just a tunnel, but a healthier, thriving environment for the river and its inhabitants. We look forward to seeing a real impact in the years to come and sharing everything we learn about the positive changes.”
When the testing of the new sewer system is completed later in 2025, the operation of the tunnel will be overseen by Thames Water.
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