United Utilities New Chief Executive Meets Local MP

Meeting at the £50 million Macclesfield Wastewater Treatment Works project, local MP, David Rutley had the opportunity to meet the new Chief Executive of United Utilities, Louise Beardmore, and to discuss water quality in the river Bollin, as well as the company’s future plans.

Earlier this year, David was very concerned to see pollution in the river Bollin and the impact this had on the local environment. He has been in close contact as investigations have been ongoing with the Environment Agency. Whilst this incident was not a result of any operation carried out by United Utilities, David was pleased to hear that the company is taking proactive action, to play its part in improving water quality in the river and has recently appointed River Rangers. The River Rangers will be engaging with local community groups and organisations to help tackle the issues that face our local rivers.

The meeting provided the opportunity for Ms Beardmore to set out her priorities, which includes the Macclesfield Wastewater Treatment Works project based in Prestbury. Ms Beardmore explained that the site is using innovative technology which will help improve water quality in the river Bollin, through lower phosphorous and ammonia levels in the treated water that is released from the works back into the environment. 

David heard how the current investment at the Wastewater Treatment Works is the start of an overhaul on vital water and wastewater infrastructure, as United Utilities’ has recently submitted a planned £13.7 billion investment plan for 2025-30.  This will focus on addressing the issue of storm overflows, which is a concern that has been raised by a number of local constituents. As part of this planned package of work, investment has been put forward to improve discharges from a number of treatment works in the Bollin catchment.

Speaking after the meeting, David said:

“It has been a year since I visited the Macclesfield Wastewater Treatment Works and it is positive to see the progress that has been made at the site to help improve water quality in our community. It is important that United Utilities is working with other key stakeholders on this vital task and I will continue to work closely with them to help deliver further improvements for the people of Macclesfield.”

Pictured - David Rutley MP at Macclesfield Wastewater Treatment Works.