Nestled in the serene, remote beauty near Wastwater in the Lake District, a beloved campsite was grappling with a rising challenge—its ageing wastewater system could no longer meet the growing demand. With more visitors and tightening environmental regulations, an upgrade became crucial to maintain compliance, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

Enter the RA Dalton team. Charged with delivering a durable solution, we crafted a plan to modernise the system while minimising its environmental impact in this delicate and pristine location.

With peak camping season in full swing, delaying action wasn’t an option. To prevent any disruption to trading in 2024, we quickly mobilised and installed a temporary mobile treatment unit on-site. This immediate solution ensured that wastewater was managed effectively while we planned for the full upgrade.

The major works were scheduled for winter 2025, during the off-peak season, to minimise impact on visitors and allow for a smooth transition to the new system.

Upgrading a wastewater system in such a remote area required careful planning. The terrain, unpredictable weather, and strict environmental guidelines meant that every detail needed to be considered. The solution had to be both effective and sustainable, ensuring smooth operation for years to come.

One of the key decisions in the design process was selecting a modular KEE treatment plant. This choice allowed us to:

✔ Incorporate a section of the original equipment – Rather than replacing everything, we maximised efficiency by integrating part of the existing system, reducing waste and unnecessary costs.
✔ Significantly improve effluent quality – The upgraded system was engineered to meet high environmental standards, ensuring that wastewater leaving the site is treated to a much higher level, minimising impact on this sensitive location.

For sites like this, installing a flow meter is crucial. Monitoring daily wastewater volumes and effluent quality ensures compliance with Environmental Agency (EA) permits, preventing any risk of exceeding permitted limits.

Groundwater infiltration is a common issue at remote sites, where excess water can enter the system and slow down treatment efficiency. Without a flow meter in place, these issues can go unnoticed, leading to potential compliance breaches and system inefficiencies. By tracking flow levels, operators can quickly detect and address any irregularities before they become serious problems.

Working in a remote location brings unique challenges. Excavation had to be meticulously planned, accounting for potential soft ground, solid rock, and high water tables. Careful coordination was required to ensure all materials, equipment, and personnel could access the site without disruption.

Every aspect of the installation, from pipework and electrical components to the treatment plant itself, had to be designed with long-term efficiency in mind. The new system would not only provide immediate improvements but also help safeguard the site’s future, preventing potential environmental risks.

This upgrade represents more than just a technical improvement—it’s an investment in sustainability. By modernising wastewater infrastructure while retaining and enhancing existing equipment, the campsite is ensuring it remains a well-maintained, environmentally responsible destination for years to come.

The site is operational this week and ready to welcome holidaymakers once again, now with a future-proofed wastewater system in place.

At RA Dalton, we specialise in delivering wastewater solutions that balance technical expertise with environmental responsibility. Whether it’s remote campsites, commercial facilities, or residential developments, we tailor each project to meet specific needs.

🚀 Looking for expert wastewater solutions for your site? Get in touch with our team today!

Images Copyright: National Trust/Robin Kitchin