Hosted by Waterwise, the UK’s leading independent organisation dedicated to promoting water efficiency and reducing water waste, the Summit brought together voices from across the water sector to discuss the challenges facing the UK’s water supply and, importantly, what we can do to address them.

With population growth, ageing infrastructure and climate change increasing pressure on our water resources, the need to act is becoming increasingly urgent.

The growing challenge

One of the key messages from the Summit was the scale of the challenge facing the UK.

Without significant changes to the way we use and manage water, England could face a 5 billion litre public water shortage every day by 2055.

This puts the importance of water efficiency and reuse firmly into perspective. While the UK is often associated with frequent rainfall, having access to water and making effective use of it are two very different things.

The Summit provided an opportunity to discuss how we can reduce demand, protect our water resources and build a more resilient future.

Putting water reuse into the spotlight

Water reuse was at the heart of the Summit’s discussions.

One simple but powerful example is rainwater harvesting.

We currently use drinking-quality water for many everyday activities that don’t necessarily require potable water – including flushing toilets, washing clothes and watering gardens.

So why not reuse rainwater for these applications instead?

Rainwater harvesting provides an opportunity to capture and reuse water that would otherwise be lost, helping to reduce reliance on mains water and make better use of an existing natural resource.

At Marsh Industries, we manufacture rainwater harvesting systems designed to help households and businesses reduce their mains water consumption and take a more sustainable approach to water management.

Find out more about Marsh Industries Rainwater Harvesting

Bringing the industry together

The Summit brought together representatives from across the sector, providing an opportunity to hear different perspectives on the UK’s water challenges and the role innovation can play in addressing them.

The event also attracted senior representatives from leading industry organisations, including the Future Water Association, Builders Merchants Federation, British Water and the National Self Build Centre, alongside major trade press organisations. Their presence highlighted the growing importance of water reuse across the wider construction, water and building sectors.

Speakers included:

• Lee Pitcher MP, Doncaster
• Julia Buckley MP, Shrewsbury
• Professor Amin Al-Habaibeh of Nottingham Trent University
• Nicci Russell of Waterwise
• George Warren of Anglian Water
• Julian Webster and Nithya Anne Thomas of Affinity Water
• Michael Farnsworth of Stormsaver
• Steve Boyer of Marsh Industries

Alongside the presentations, attendees took part in group discussions exploring the challenges we face and how we can prevent further decline in water availability.

For Marsh Industries, it was an important opportunity to contribute to the conversation and share our experience of developing practical solutions that can help reduce water consumption.

Innovation has a role to play

A clear message from the Summit was that innovation will be key to scaling water reuse across the UK.

We cannot wait until water shortages become an even bigger problem before taking action.

Every drop of water we can save, reuse or manage more effectively can make a difference. Rainwater harvesting is just one example of how relatively simple changes can contribute to a much bigger solution.

The challenge is significant, but so is the opportunity.

If water reuse became more widely adopted across homes, businesses and developments, the cumulative impact could be substantial.

At Marsh Industries, we believe the industry has a responsibility to continue developing and promoting solutions that help make better use of our most valuable natural resource.

We shouldn’t wait for the problem to start. We can take action now – and help soften the impact of the challenges ahead.

Every drop matters.

Marsh Industries – delivering innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.

The post Marsh Industries joins industry leaders at Water Reuse Summit in London appeared first on Marsh Industries.

As the construction and infrastructure sectors place increasing emphasis on greener and more environmentally responsible drainage solutions, Marsh Industries has continued to examine and independently verify the effectiveness of its separator technology when incorporated into Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS).

The company has tested the Marator separator for total suspended solids and metal reduction in line with industry-recognised procedures at the PIA notified test facility in Aachen, Germany. This testing complements the product’s existing EN 858-1 certification for light liquid separators.

Combining the certified separator performance with additional mitigation testing demonstrates the Marator’s ability to achieve outstanding pollutant reduction, including:

The hydrocarbon performance represents a significant improvement over the BS EN 858-1 Class 1 requirement of less than 5 mg/l, demonstrating the Marator’s capability where enhanced environmental protection is required.

These independently verified results give specifiers increased confidence when selecting treatment equipment for sensitive surface-water applications and help position the Marator as a comprehensive treatment solution for SuDS schemes, highways, commercial developments, distribution centres, industrial sites and other environmentally sensitive locations. With its unique design the Marator minimises micro-plastics from entering the watercourses and the drainage network.

Marsh Industries Chairman Steve Boyer, who oversaw the original testing programme, said:

“It is almost taken for granted that products such as separators have a positive environmental role, but consultants, contractors and regulators increasingly want independently verified evidence of exactly what that equipment can achieve.”

“With the Marator, we have gone considerably further than simply demonstrating compliance with the traditional Class 1 hydrocarbon standard. Independent testing has demonstrated less than 0.1 mg/l hydrocarbons in the final effluent, alongside 84.35% particle retention and 63.26% total metal reduction.”

“These results provide consultants and specifiers with meaningful performance data and demonstrate why the Marator should be considered where a higher level of surface-water protection is required.”

The Marator forms part of Marsh Industries’ continuing investment in independently tested and certified water-management products, supported by UK manufacturing, technical design assistance and specialist sales support.

Read more about the Marsh Marator here.

For further information, or to discuss your next SuDS project, contact Marsh Industries at sales@marshindustries.co.uk or call 01933 654582

The post Marsh Marator SuDS SAFE provides surety for specifiers appeared first on Marsh Industries.

Designed for architects, consulting engineers, housebuilders, developers and drainage professionals, our CPD sessions provide practical, up-to-date guidance on off-mains drainage, wastewater treatment and sustainable water management. Whether delivered at your office or as part of a virtual session, our training is tailored to help specification professionals make informed decisions from the earliest stages of project design.

Technical Expertise You Can Trust

Our CPD programme draws on decades of combined industry experience. Rather than delivering a sales presentation, our aim is to provide valuable technical knowledge that delegates can immediately apply to current and future projects.

Each session explores the key considerations when specifying wastewater treatment systems, pump stations and associated drainage products, helping attendees understand current regulations, design requirements and common specification challenges.

Our interactive approach encourages discussion, allowing delegates to ask project-specific questions and benefit from practical guidance from industry experts.

Michael Harrison – Business Development Director

Will Hadler – Commercial Sales Manager – Southern

Mark Bishop – Contract Sales Manager

Supporting Better Specification

A successful specification goes beyond selecting the right product. It requires accurate technical information, reliable design support and confidence that the chosen solution will meet regulatory requirements.

To complement our CPD programme, Marsh Industries provides an extensive range of free technical resources, including:

• BIM and CAD objects
• NBS specifications
• Product datasheets
• Technical drawings
• Installation and operation manuals
• Certification documents
• Design support from our technical team

These resources enable architects and engineers to integrate Marsh products into their designs efficiently while reducing specification time and improving project accuracy.

BIM Resources That Simplify Design

Our BIM and CAD Library has been developed to support modern digital construction workflows. By providing accurate product models and technical information, designers can confidently incorporate Marsh solutions into BIM-enabled projects, improving coordination, reducing clashes and streamlining the design process.

Combined with our Technical Library, these resources ensure specifiers have access to the latest documentation whenever they need it, helping projects progress smoothly from concept through to construction. You can visit our BIM and CAD Library here.

Delivered Nationwide

Marsh Industries delivers CPD sessions to practices and organisations throughout the UK. Whether you’re a small architectural practice, multidisciplinary consultancy or national developer, our team can arrange training at a time and location that suits you.

Our sessions are informative, engaging and designed to provide genuine value, equipping delegates with practical knowledge that supports compliant, sustainable and efficient wastewater system design.

Book Your CPD Session

If your team would like to expand its knowledge of off-mains drainage, wastewater treatment and specification best practice, we’d be delighted to help.

To arrange a CPD session or find out more about the topics we cover, contact the Marsh Industries team today. Together, we’ll help ensure your next project starts with the right technical knowledge and the right support.If your team would like to expand its knowledge of off-mains drainage, wastewater treatment and specification best practice, we’d be delighted to help.

To arrange a CPD session or find out more about the topics we cover, contact the Marsh Industries team today. Together, we’ll help ensure your next project starts with the right technical knowledge and the right support.

The post Marsh Industries Delivers Expert CPD Training for Architects, Engineers and Construction Professionals Across the UK appeared first on Marsh Industries.

Do I need planning permission?

The answer depends on your project, your property’s location and how the treated water will be discharged. In many cases, planning permission isn’t required for a straightforward replacement, but there are other regulations you’ll still need to comply with, including Building Regulations and environmental legislation.

This article explains what you need to know before installing a sewage treatment plant in England, Scotland and Wales.

When Is Planning Permission Required?

For many domestic properties, replacing an existing wastewater system with a new sewage treatment plant is considered a like-for-like improvement and planning permission may not be required.

However, planning permission could be necessary if:

• You’re building a new property.
• The installation forms part of a larger development.
• The system is located within a Conservation Area, National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (where additional planning controls may apply).
• The installation significantly alters the appearance or use of the site.
• Your local planning authority requires approval due to site-specific conditions.

Because every site is different, it’s always worth checking with your local planning authority before work begins.

What About Building Regulations?

Even if planning permission isn’t required, your installation will normally need to comply with Building Regulations.

Building Regulations help ensure the drainage system is designed and installed safely, protecting both the property and the environment.

They cover areas such as:

• Correct sizing of the sewage treatment plant.
• Suitable pipework and drainage layout.
• Ventilation requirements.
• Installation standards.
• Safe discharge arrangements.

Your installer or drainage designer should be familiar with these requirements and ensure the installation meets the relevant standards.

Environment Agency Requirements (England)

In England, small domestic sewage discharges are regulated by the Environment Agency through the General Binding Rules.

These rules are designed to protect rivers, streams, groundwater and the wider environment.

Depending on your installation, you’ll need to consider:

• Where treated wastewater will discharge.
• Whether your property qualifies under the General Binding Rules.
• Whether an environmental permit is required.
• Ongoing maintenance and servicing responsibilities.

For many domestic sewage treatment plants that meet the required standards, an environmental permit isn’t needed, provided the installation complies with the General Binding Rules.

However, if your system falls outside these rules, additional permissions may be required.

Environment Agency Requirements Permits

What Are the General Binding Rules?

The General Binding Rules are a set of legal requirements that govern small sewage discharges in England.

They include guidance on:

• The type of treatment system you can install.
• Where treated water can be discharged.
• Maximum discharge volumes.
• Maintenance responsibilities.
• Protecting nearby watercourses and groundwater.

If you’re replacing an older septic tank that discharges directly to a watercourse, you may need to upgrade to a compliant sewage treatment plant.

Understanding these rules before purchasing a new system can help avoid costly changes later. We have a news update that goes through the details of the general binding rules, in a deeper context, if you would like to read this, click here.

Regulations in Scotland

Wastewater regulations in Scotland differ from those in England.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) regulates private wastewater treatment systems through the Water Environment (Controlled Activities) Regulations, commonly known as CAR.

Depending on your installation, you may need:

• Registration or authorisation.
• Compliance with discharge limits.
• Approval for your discharge location.
• Building warrant approval where applicable.

If your property is located in Scotland, it’s important to follow SEPA guidance before installing or replacing any wastewater treatment system.

Regulations in Wales

In Wales, wastewater discharges are regulated by Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

While many of the principles are similar to those in England, the guidance and permitting process can differ.

Before installation, homeowners should check:

• Discharge requirements.
• Environmental permitting.
• Building Regulations.
• Any local planning requirements.

If you’re unsure, your installer or drainage specialist should be able to advise on the latest Welsh regulations.

Other Things to Consider Before Installation

Alongside permissions and regulations, there are several practical factors that should be considered before choosing your sewage treatment plant.

These include:

• Ground conditions.
• Groundwater levels.
• Available installation space.
• Access for maintenance.
• Power supply.
• Discharge location.
• Population Equivalent (PE) requirements.

Taking these factors into account during the planning stage can help ensure your system performs efficiently for many years.

Conclusion

For many homeowners, installing or replacing a sewage treatment plant does not require planning permission, but that doesn’t mean there are no rules to follow.

Building Regulations, environmental legislation and the relevant guidance for your nation of the UK all play an important role in ensuring your wastewater system is safe, compliant and environmentally responsible.

If you’re unsure about what’s required for your property, it’s always best to speak with your local planning authority, environmental regulator or a trusted drainage specialist before work begins.

At Marsh Industries, we’re here to help. Our knowledgeable team can guide you through the process, helping you choose the right wastewater solution while providing technical advice to support your project from start to finish. Get in touch with our team today!

The post Do I Need Planning Permission for a Sewage Treatment Plant? appeared first on Marsh Industries.

Taking home the Gold Award for Business Innovation, Marsh Industries was recognised for its ongoing commitment to developing forward-thinking solutions within the wastewater and drainage sector. This award highlights the company’s dedication to continuous improvement, product development, and delivering practical, efficient solutions for customers across the UK.

In addition to this success, Marsh Industries was also awarded Silver for Sustainability, reflecting the company’s strong focus on environmentally responsible practices. From manufacturing processes through to product design, sustainability remains a key priority as Marsh continues to reduce its environmental impact while supporting customers in meeting regulatory and environmental standards.

The awards evening brought together a wide range of businesses from across the region, celebrating innovation, resilience, and excellence within the SME community. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other organisations and recognise the achievements of businesses making a real impact in their industries.

These awards are a testament to the hard work, expertise, and dedication of the entire Marsh team. Their ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability continues to drive the business forward and strengthen its position within the industry.

Marsh Industries would like to thank the SME Business Awards for hosting such a memorable event and extend congratulations to all the other finalists and winners on the night.

The post Marsh Industries Celebrates Double Win at SME Business Awards appeared first on Marsh Industries.

The General Binding Rules (GBRs) are the legal standards that regulate small sewage discharges from septic tanks and sewage treatment plants in England. The General Binding Rules (GBRs) 2015 were implemented on January 1, 2015, to govern small sewage discharges in England. They set out requirements for small sewage discharges, including that new systems must not discharge untreated sewage into open water and must use a septic tank or small sewage treatment plant. Identifying that for discharges to surface water, a small sewage treatment plant would be required, while septic tanks would need to discharge to a drainage field in the ground. 

These rules were then further tightened in 2020 – most notably banning existing septic tanks from discharging directly into surface water. Owners with such systems had to upgrade or replace them by this date, or by the time they sold their property if that came first. These rules also include general requirements for septic tanks and sewage treatment plants, such as correct installation, regular maintenance, and regular emptying. 

In 2023, further clarification and enforcement updates have been made with reference to combined discharge and distances between discharge points. Homeowners, property buyers, sellers, and installers should ensure their systems remain compliant to avoid pollution, legal issues, and costly last-minute upgrades.

Below is a breakdown of what has changed – and how Marsh Industries can help you stay on the right side of the rules.

What’s changed in 2023?

While the core 2020 rules still apply, the 2023 update strengthened enforcement, responsibility, and evidence requirements:

1. Increased enforcement around surface water discharges
   Regulators are now actively checking rural and semi-rural areas for systems that still discharge directly to streams, rivers, ditches, lakes, or coastal waters.
2. Under the 2023 update, no septic tank may discharge directly to surface water under any circumstances.
3. Greater emphasis on proving compliance
   Homeowners are now expected to provide documented evidence of compliance when:
   • Selling a property
   • Refurbishing or extending a property
   • Replacing or upgrading off-mains systems
   • Responding to an Environmental Health query
   This includes showing how wastewater is treated, where it discharges, and when the system was last serviced.
4. Responsibility extends to new property owners
   Buyers inherit the legal responsibility for any non-compliant system.
5. The 2023 update stresses that sellers must disclose the type of system installed and confirm whether it meets current regulations.
6. Drainage fields must meet BS 6297
   Where a drainage field is used, it must be designed and installed in accordance with BS 6297.(link to web definition of the standards)
7. Many older soakaways no longer meet this standard, meaning assessment or replacement may be required.
8. Sites with limited space face stricter scrutiny
   If a drainage field is not feasible (e.g., clay soils, high water table, small plots), the system must be upgraded to a sewage treatment plant (link to sewage tp page) or an approved conversion unit.(link to uni-gem page).  In doing so creating an acceptable level of effluent discharge to surface water.

Current compliant discharge options (2023)

If your septic tank currently discharges to surface water, the law requires you to upgrade.

The 2023 rules allow the following compliant options:

1. Connect to mains sewer (where possible)
If access to a public sewer exists, connection is the simplest compliant option.Pump chambers can be used if the site is low-lying.

2. Install a drainage field (BS 6297 compliant)
This allows treated wastewater to percolate safely into the ground.However, with space or percolation constraints this option is not suitable for all sites.

3. Install a septic conversion unit such as the Uni:Gem
A compliant solution where the existing septic tank can be retained.A conversion unit treats effluent to a high enough standard to discharge to surface water.  The appropriate functionality  of the existing septic tank and its ability to treat the relevant flows and loads should be taken into account.

4. Upgrade to a full sewage treatment plant
This is the most common route.A modern treatment plant treats wastewater to a much higher standard and removes the need for a drainage field.

How Marsh Industries can help you meet the 2023 rules

Marsh offers a range of off-mains solutions – from small domestic systems to large commercial plants – ensuring full compliance with the General Binding Rules.

Marsh Ensign Sewage Treatment Plants

• Tested and approved to BS EN12566-3/A1:2009(link)
• High treatment performance (97% pollutant removal)
• Available in Ultra, Standard and Shallow variants
• Suitable for 4–50PE applicationsA reliable and economical long-term solution for complete replacements.

Marsh sewage treatment plants

Marsh Ultra:Polylok L

• Innovative, compact domestic treatment plant
• High performance: 20:30:20 effluent quality
• Available in 6PE and 12PEIdeal for sites needing fast, straightforward installation.

Marsh Ultra:Polylok L

Uni:Gem Septic Conversion Unit

• Converts an existing septic tank into a compliant treatment system
• Suitable for domestic, commercial, and agricultural applications
• Allows continued discharge to surface waterPerfect where a drainage field or full system replacement isn’t feasible.

Marsh Uni:Gem septic conversion unit

Need help achieving 2023 compliance?

Marsh Industries provides complete off-mains wastewater solutions and can guide you through every stage – from assessment to installation.

Call us: 01933 654582 | Email: sales@marshindustries.co.uk
 

The post Is your septic tank compliant? appeared first on Marsh Industries.

The most notable development has been the expansion of our external sales team. In response to increased demand and to better support our customers, the decision was taken to split the previous Wales and West Midlands region into two dedicated areas. To that end, Marsh has welcomed two new External Sales Representatives, Jake Simons and Jamie Cowley, who now manage these regions. Their appointments strengthen the company’s UK-wide presence and ensure customers continue to receive the high level of service Marsh is known for.

Further strengthening the team, we were also pleased to welcome Will Hadler as our Commercial Sales Manager. Bringing years of industry experience, Will has added significant expertise to our external sales function, making an already strong team even stronger and better equipped to support customers nationwide.

Alongside this growth, Marsh Industries has also entered an exciting new chapter within its leadership team. Steve Boyer has taken on the role of Chairman, continuing to provide strategic guidance and long-term vision for the business. Lydia Beaumont has stepped into the position of Managing Director, leading the company’s day-to-day operations and future development. Supporting this structure, Ollie Beaumont has moved into the role of Sales Director, while Michael Harrison has become Business Development Director, further driving growth opportunities and strengthening key partnerships across the industry.

Internally, we have also taken an exciting step by establishing our first in-house marketing function. With the arrival of Kasia Choules, we have seen our marketing efforts truly take off. Bringing marketing expertise in-house has allowed us to better tell the Marsh story, strengthen brand consistency and support our customers and sales teams more effectively. It has been a pleasure to watch the impact of this role grow and evolve over the past year.

Together, these developments reflect a business that is evolving with purpose — strengthening our team, refining our structure and ensuring Marsh Industries is well positioned for continued success in the years ahead.

We are also proud to see diversity flourish across the business, reinforcing a culture where different perspectives, experiences and ideas are valued and welcomed. This cultural growth has gone hand-in-hand with the creation of our company values — The Marsh Way — which guides everything we do:

Reflecting on the past year, we are extremely proud of what we have achieved but we are equally excited about what the future has in store for the company. Our growth is driven by our people, our values and our commitment to doing things the right way — the Marsh way.

The post A Year of Growth, Investment and Progress at Marsh Industries appeared first on Marsh Industries.

This strategic investment enables the Marsh’s Bridgwater site to operate extended hours, increasing manufacturing output and enhancing dispatch efficiency. As a result, customers will benefit from faster lead times and quicker deliveries, helping projects remain on schedule and reducing downtime on site.

The introduction of a second shift forms part of Marsh Industries’ ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. Marsh’s Bridgwater site now operates from 6am – 10pm, these extended manufacturing hours ensures the Bridgwater team are now better positioned to manage increased demand, improve flexibility, and maintain consistently high service levels during peak periods.

Importantly, this expansion also supports Marsh Industries’ long-term growth strategy. Increasing capacity at their Bridgwater production site, ensures the business can continue to provide reliable supply while maintaining the high standards of quality and service customers expect.

Commenting on the expansion, Ollie Beaumont, National Sales Manager at Marsh Industries, said:

“The result of expanding and extending manufacturing hours at Bridgwater has been something we have wanted to achieve for a long time. We believe this move will not only increase our ability to produce and dispatch tanks more efficiently but also help us strengthen and build relationships with both new and existing customers by delivering the very best service the industry has to offer.”

This latest development highlights Marsh Industries’ continued investment in its people, facilities, and infrastructure, reinforcing its commitment to delivering efficient, dependable solutions and exceptional customer service.

The post Marsh Industries Expands Operations at Bridgwater Facility with Introduction of a Back Shift appeared first on Marsh Industries.

The SUMP2DRAIN range offers a reliable, packaged pumping solution for managing surface water, greywater, and foul sewage. Designed to collect wastewater in an underground chamber and pump it efficiently to the main sewer, treatment plant, or storage system, these compact units are ideal for a wide variety of applications. From extensions and garden rooms to small commercial developments.

To suit different site requirements, SUMP2DRAIN pump stations are available in both GRP and Polyethylene (PE) constructions:

• GRP pump stations are best suited to larger, deeper, or more complex installations, offering high strength, rigidity, and long-term durability in demanding ground conditions.
• Polyethylene (PE) pump stations offer a lightweight, cost-effective solution for smaller to medium-sized installations and shallower depths, featuring excellent impact resistance and ease of installation.

Each SUMP2DRAIN unit is supplied as a complete, ready-to-install package, including internal pipework and high-performance submersible pump(s). Optional features such as grinder pumps and high-level alarms are also available for added protection and peace of mind.

All SUMP2DRAIN pump stations are exclusively available from Marsh Industries.

For more information or to discuss your requirements, please contact our team.

The post Marsh Industries Expands SUMP2DRAIN Pump Station Range appeared first on Marsh Industries.

In our previous Sooey Christmas campaign, we were proud to donate £5,000 to four wonderful hospitals, helping to bring a little extra comfort and joy to children and families when they needed it most. The incredible support we received inspired us to go even bigger this year.

Every mile he makes will help raise funds for seven Children’s Hospitals and Hospices across the UK, each set to receive a £3,350 donation to support the life-changing work they do every day.

As Sooey embarks on his journey, he’s travelling near and far—spreading festive cheer, shining a light on the organisations that make an enormous difference, and reminding us all of the power of community at Christmas.

We invite you to follow along, cheer him on, and share in the spirit of giving.

Together, we can turn miles into smiles for children this Christmas!

The hospitals we are working with this year are:

• Addenbrookes Cambridge Trust
• Eden Valley Jigsaw Hospice
• CHAS Scotland
• Acorns Hospice – Walsall
• Children’s hospice – South West (Little Bridge House, Little Harbour, Charlton Farm)
• Zoes Place – Middlesbrough
• Maidstone and Turnbridge Hospital Charity

Check back here for updates and follow Sooey on his journey on our social media channels:

The post Sooey is on a mission this Christmas appeared first on Marsh Industries.