Management
Turning the Tide: Restoring
About the client
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📍 Location UK
💼 Industry
⚙️ Innovation Management
Co-Lab has consistently delivered these projects in a structured and organised manner, keeping teams engaged, motivated, and results driven.
- Viv Winter, Head of Business Improvements, Sellafield Ltd, Legacy Ponds
Challenges
Addressing Mine Water Pollution Impacting Whitehaven Harbour
Since November 2022, Whitehaven Harbour has experienced severe water discolouration suspected to be caused by mine water pollution. High levels of iron and manganese have turned the water orange-brown, damaging marine life, deterring visitors, and causing a 40% drop in marina traffic.
Solution
Implementing Short-Term Water Treatment Solutions
To address the issue, three short-term solutions have been identified: a Passive Vertical Flow Reactor (VFR) using gravel filtration, an Active VFR with a SiltBuster system for enhanced sediment removal, and SpinChem, a rotating filtration device targeting iron particulates. These solutions are cost-effective, quick to implement, and will reduce pollution while a long-term water treatment system is developed.
Process
Collaborative Optioneering and Strategic Planning for Long-Term Treatment
The sprint team conducted a detailed optioneering study, engaging stakeholders and evaluating technical feasibility. Next steps include public briefing, small-scale testing, securing funding, and deploying the chosen solutions. The long-term strategy involves building a cascade water treatment facility to permanently prevent mine water contamination.
Benefits
Environmental, Economic, and Community Impact
Environmental Restoration – Reduces iron and manganese levels, improving water quality and protecting marine life, including fish and microorganisms.
Economic Recovery – Helps reverse the 40% drop in marina visitors, boosting local businesses, tourism, and harbour revenue.
Public Perception & Reputation – Clears up misconceptions about sewage contamination, restoring confidence in Whitehaven as a visitor destination.
