Discovery at Hampshire sewage plant unveils 19th-century artefacts

The discovery occurred at Chickenhall Wastewater Treatment Works in Eastleigh during a £4.5m improvement project that began in November last year and will conclude in March 2025.

While excavating for a storm tank construction, the workers chanced upon a mug and water bottle embellished with the emblem of a 19th century rail company, London and South Western Railways.

While excavating for a storm tank construction, the workers chanced upon a mug and water bottle (Image: Supplied)

The area is known for its strong historic connection with the burgeoning railway industry, particularly after a railway station's establishment in 1838 by the same company near the village of Barton.

Initially identified as Bishopstoke Junction, it was a significant catalyst for Eastleigh’s growth in the period predating the first world war.

Chickenhall Wastewater Treatment Works itself is a longstanding establishment tracing back to the 1870s.

The mug incorporates the logo of London and South Western Railways (Image: Supplied)

It dutifully serves nearly 100,000 residents from Eastleigh and neighbouring villages, including Shawford, Twyford, Colden Common and Otterbourne, located south of Winchester.

The ongoing improvements at the works, undertaken by joint venture GTb - a combination of Galliford Try Environment and Binnies UK Ltd, aim to augment storm tank capacity, decrease storm overflows and enhance water quality.

The recently discovered artefacts are a testament to the rich history of this small municipal corner of Hampshire.

Director for Wastewater Operations, John Penicud, said: "It is fascinating seeing the history that surrounds our treatment works, we always make sure that when we do work we take care so we don’t damage any of the interesting relics we may uncover.

"Eastleigh is an interesting place and its connection to the railway is central to the town’s identity, so it doesn’t surprise me that evidence of this is still being uncovered.”

"Moving forward, what is also important is the town’s connection to the River Itchen that is next to our treatment works and the improvements we’re making will help our wider work of improving water quality at this important chalk stream."