The two-phase project aims to increase treatment capacity and improve water quality.
The first phase at the site, on the southern edge of Oxford close to Grenoble Road, is set to meet demand until 2031.
The work is scheduled for completion in 2027 and will increase the site’s treatment capacity, reduce sewage spills, and improve the quality of water discharged into Northfield Brook.
This phase will also use plant-based treatment technology developed by Nuvoda.
The second phase – scheduled for completion in 2030 – will further expand the site’s capacity to meet demand through to 2041.
This stage will also help the utility meet environmental targets relating to wastewater flows and water quality.
Some parts of the upgrade need planning permission from Oxfordshire County Council.
These include a new activated sludge plant blower building, a sludge processing barn, temporary vehicle access from Grenoble Road, and a landscaping bund.
Thames Water submitted a planning application in February 2026.
The Oxford project is part of what the company describes as its largest investment programme in more than 150 years.
The company plans to spend more than £20 billion on water and wastewater infrastructure across its region.
Industry reports estimate the Oxford scheme could be worth around £340 million, increasing treatment capacity by about 40 per cent.
However, a recent Oxfordshire Developers Forum meeting set out to propose wether a new site should be built entirely.
Paul Mumford, director at GummerLeathes, a UK master developer and property development companym asked about the possibility of moving the Oxford sewage treatment works.
Neale Coleman, chair of the Oxford Growth Commission, responded: “We think that there are some very strong arguments for why moving sewage treatment works would be desirable for maximising both housing and economic growth in that area
“We are actively talking to Thames Water about the issues with the sewage treatment works”
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