Sludge and Silt Disposal in West Sussex
Safe, Legal, and Efficient Waste Removal
Steel Drains provides professional sludge and silt disposal services across West Sussex and surrounding areas. Whether from interceptors, settlement tanks, gullies, or road drainage systems, we collect and dispose of waste material quickly and in full compliance with UK environmental regulations.
What Are Sludge and Silt Waste Materials?
Where Do They Come From?
Sludge and silt build up in a wide range of drainage and water management systems. Common sources include:
- Interceptors and separators
- Catch Pit and Gullies
- Settlement and Attenuation Tanks
- Surface Water Drains and Culverts
- Road Sweepings and Highway Drainage Systems
- Water Treatment and Industrial Processes
These materials often contain a mix of grit, organic matter, oils, and other suspended solids that settle over time.
Free no obligation quote!
No job too big or small, simply fill in the form below and we’ll give you a call to discuss your requirements.
Why Proper Disposal Is Essential
If left unmanaged, sludge and silt can cause serious drainage issues, including reduces flow, standing water, and flooding. They also present environmental risks if pollutants are allowed to enter natural watercourses.
UK regulations require that all we waste is removed by licensed professionals, and disposed of at an authorised treatment facility. At Steel Drains, we ensure every stage of the process is carried out safely, legally, and efficiently.
Our Sludge and Silt Disposal Service
Expert Removal Backed by Licensed Waste Handling
We provide a full-service solution for removing and disposing of sludge and silt waste across commercial, industrial, and public sector sites. Using powerful vacuum tankers and jetting equipment, our team handles even the most difficult access jobs with precision and care.
Whether it’s a routine clean or an emergency response, we ensure your site remains clear, safe, and fully compliant.

Vacuum Tanker Collection
Our fleet includes high-capacity vacuum and jet vac tankers capable of removing sludge and silt from confined spaces, underground tanks, drainage systems, and interceptors. We safely extract waste without damaging your infrastructure or causing disruption.

Transport and Waste Handling
Steel Drains is a fully licensed waste carrier. Once collected, all sludge and silt materials are transported to authorised treatment or recycling centres, in accordance with Environment Agency guidance and waste classification codes.

Full Documentation Provided
Every disposal job includes:
- Waste transfer notes
- Volume and collection records
- Disposal site details
- EWC waste classification (e.g. 20 03 03, 13 05 06)
This ensures your business remains compliant with Duty of Care regulations and audit requirements.

When Should Sludge or Silt Be Removed?
Sludge and Silt should be removed regularly to prevent build up that can lead to blocked drains, reduced system capacity, or environmental contamination. Most sites benefit from scheduled removal every six to twelve months, depending on usage and risk level.
You should consider immediate removal if you notice:
- Slow Drainage or Standing Water.
- Foul Odours or Visable Build-Up.
- Reduced Interceptor or Tank Capacity.
- Overflow or Backflow during rainfall.
We can assess your system and recommend a tailored maintenance plan based on your site’s layout, industry, and regulatory requirements.
Why Choose Steel Drains?
Professional, reliable, and fully compliant emergency Pollution and Flood Response services
Serving Commercial, Industrial, and Local Authority Clients
We support businesses, councils, and facilities management teams across West Sussex. Whether you require routine maintenance, or one off clearance, we provide reliable service you can trust.
Specialists in Wet Waste Handling
Out team has the extensive experience in managing sludge and silt removal across a wide range of sectors. From interceptor waste to gully and tank cleaning, we deliver fast, effective solutions with minimal disruption.
Compliant with UK Environmental Regulations
Steel Drains is a registered waste carried, and operates in full accordance with Environment Agency guidelines, including proper waste classification, transport, and disposal documentation.
Free no obligation quote!
No job too big or small, simply fill in the form below and we’ll give you a call to discuss your requirements.
Book Sludge or Silt Disposal Today
Protect your site, your drainage system, and the environment with professional sludge and silt disposal from Steel Drains. We offer fast, fully compliant waste removal across West Sussex for commercial, industrial, and public sector clients.
Whether you need emergency clearance or routine maintenance, our team is ready to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote or to schedule a site visit.
- 01903 259 487
- 07946 061 074
- office@steeldrains.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sludge and silt do you remove?
We remove non-hazardous sludge and silt from interceptors, settlement tanks, catch pits, surface water drains, and road systems. This includes organic matter, grit, silt, and suspended solids.
How often should sludge or silt be removed?
Most sites benefit from removal every 6 to 12 months, though this can vary depending on system usage and local conditions. We can assess and recommend a suitable schedule.
Are you licensed to carry and dispose of this type of waste?
Yes. Steel Drains is a registered waste carrier with the Environment Agency. We handle, transport, and dispose of waste in full compliance with UK environmental regulations.
What happens to the sludge after collection?
All waste is transported to authorised treatment facilities where it may be dewatered, treated, or recycled depending on its classification and content.
What documentation do you provide?
We provide waste transfer notes, volume records, and disposal site information. This ensures your business remains compliant with Duty of Care and audit requirements.
Do you provide emergency clearance?
Yes. We offer reactive callouts for blockages, flooding, or tank overflows where sludge or silt may be the cause.
What equipment do you use?
We use powerful vacuum and jet vac tankers to remove waste quickly and efficiently, including from difficult access or confined space areas.
Do you clean interceptors and tanks as well?
Absolutely. We offer full emptying and cleaning services for sludge tanks, oil interceptors, and drainage chambers.
What areas do you cover?
We operate throughout West Sussex and surrounding regions, working with commercial, industrial, and local authority clients.