IT’S being hailed as a major redevelopment that will modernise a Hampshire treatment works and more importantly for residents – reduce the pong.

Southern Water is inviting members of the public to have their say on the revamp of Woolston Wastewater Treatment Works which was first built in 1966.

The proposed scheme aims to reduce the smells coming from the works in Victoria Road, and ensure treated water leaving the site meets new EU standards.

It will also involve a complete redesign of the works to ensure it fits in with the redevelopment of the surrounding area and not become an eyesore for the new look community.

Bosses will be holding public exhibitions this week to provide information about the proposals and to seek people’s views before a planning application is submitted to Southampton City Council later this year.

Representatives from the company and the project team will be there to talk in more detail and answer any questions residents may have.

Mark Thompson, from Southern Water, said: “The Environment Agency has specified tighter standards on the treatment of wastewater before it can be recycled into the environment in line with the latest EU requirements.

“We must improve the processes at this site so it can meet these new standards.

We also need to reduce smells coming from the works which we know can cause problems for residents and businesses nearby.

“The end result of the proposed scheme will be a modern wastewater treatment works which will be able to serve Woolston long into the future.

“I hope as many people as possible come to see us at the exhibition so we can tell them about our plans and hear their views.”

The exhibitions will take place at St Mark’s Institute, 37a Victoria Road, on Thursday, between 2pm and 8pm and Saturday, between 10am and 2pm.