Posted By SLS Please bare with me on this one...... Scenario: Environment Agency have issues with a washbay on one of our sites (car dealership), in that by us using the washbay they feel we are polluting the local watercourse. Vehicles being cleaned stand over a large sediment tank, this tank then leads to a 3 part interceptor which ultimately leads to a nearby storm drain. The fact that it leads to a storm drain (not a foul water drain) is the problem. We don't own this particular site and the landlord is adamant that the site was build in accordance to all relevant regs etc. The company we have just had on site to clean the sediment tank/interceptor, and also conduct a CCTV investigation into the drainage has said that all other similar sites they visit are 'set up' the same way. I understand that the main issue is that the detergents used to wash the vehicles renders the interceptor useless, allowing oil etc. to flow into the watercourse. If this is the case, why would the system have been set up this way? I feel like the 'piggy in the middle' on this issue and would appreciate advice from those who are more experienced etc.

Posted By SLS Thanks Simon - great guidnace notes. Wish I had used whats left of my brain to find it earlier myself. If im reading it right, i guess our drainage arrangements are wrong. Would have thought that this is something we will have to go back to the landlord with. In the meantime the washbay remains 'out of use'.

Posted By SLS Thanks again Simon, your advice has been gratefully received. I predict a few more sleepless nights ahead, but will keep my fingers crossed that now i understand the requirements a little better, i may be able to get the matter successfully resolved.

Posted By GeoffB4 Little more information in the format of an email early last year: I've contacted Anglian Water (my home water authority) with the following results: Car wash waters must go to foul water sewers, or if no mains sewers to storage tanks for regular emptying (which must be by a licenced waste contractor They must not go to surface water drains, streams or other water courses The oil/grease limit is 300ppm - normal car wash would be well below this level. If higher than 300ppm eg garages/maintenance, then intercepters will be required A Trade Effluent Consent is required for all commercial car washes Cost is £60 per consent Conditions will include water metering, and from that a commercial sewage charge (cheaper than domestic charge) for the disposal of the water The Anglian Water contact John Walsh (07889 434040) is a Catchment Quality Scientist (previously known as an 'Effluent Inspector') and was very helpful if further information is required. He mentioned that a complicated application form is involved but he would be able to facilitate consents over the whole of the Anglian Water region. Thought it might help although it will probably be slightly different for each LWA.

Posted By GeoffB4 Simon's reference (I hadn't seen that doc before) seems to confirm my findings above. http://publications.envi...pdf/PMHO0307BMDX-e-e.pdf It is the sewer provider who provides permission. I doubt it is the end of the story ;-))

Posted By GeoffB4 Agreed!