A MULTIMILLION-pound upgrade to treatment works in Southampton have been rated "excellent" in a national building scheme.

Southern Water's £5.5 million project to upgrade treatment works of Kent Road, St Denys, was given the rating in the national Considerate Constructor Scheme.

The marking system, which companies voluntarily sign up for, is run by a not-for-profit independent organisation.

It looks at how building companies use best practice to minimise the impact on residents.

Southern Water's scheme was awarded 41 out of 50, with all categories being rated “excellent or exceptional”.

James Rance, Southern Water project manager, said: “This is a fantastic achievement that recognises the hard work that we all put in to ensure we are considerate in everything we do on site.

“This scheme will ensure we can continue to provide a reliable wastewater service to our customers while protecting the environment.”

The company says construction partner Galliford Try started work on the upgrade in August 2017.

The work includes updating equipment for cleansing waste water in the area, as well as installing more effective odour control systems.

The project is expected to be completed by August 2019