BASINGSTOKE MP Maria Miller has criticised Thames Water for proposals which could see extra lorry loads of sewage taken to its plant in Chineham.

The water company is planning to construct a new facility for the sewage treatment process at the Basingstoke Sewage Treatment Works, in Whitmarsh Lane.

If approved, the new facility would be built on land at the current site – but it could potentially see 250 extra lorry movements every week.

A formal planning application is set to be submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council next year. However, Mrs Miller has slammed the extra number of lorry loads that could go to the facility.

The Basingstoke MP said: “Plans for an additional 250 lorry movements a week in and out of the sewage works are unacceptable.

“This would have a significant impact on the already heavily congested A33 at a time when increased levels of house building will also be adding to congestion.”

A spokesman for Thames Water said: “Should our proposal gain planning consent, there would be a maximum of an extra 250 lorry movements per week during busy periods. We’re looking at opportunities to reduce this number and limit vehicle movements to outside peak hours.

“We’re still working on our proposals and intend to submit a planning application early next year.”