Work has started on a £19m Yorkshire Water project to improve water quality in and around Barnsley. The scheme aims to reduce phosphorus levels at the company’s Wombwell wastewater treatment plant, helping protect rivers and public and animal health while accommodating population growth.

Specialist chemicals and beneficial bacteria will remove phosphorus from wastewater, with completion expected in early 2029. The project forms part of Yorkshire Water’s wider £2bn environmental investment, following a reported rise in pollution incidents from 151 in March 2025 to 260 in April 2026 and an expected downgrade to a one-star Environment Agency rating.