Chatham, Kent, has a new landmark. A huge new public artwork now sits on the Rats Bay Surface Water Pumping Station.
The mural marks the finish of a critical £750,000 flood defence upgrade. This essential work was carried out by Southern Water.
The extensive project boosts the town’s ability to handle heavy rain. Crucially, it should protect the frequently hit Chatham High Street area from future flooding.
This scheme did two things. It updated vital utility infrastructure and improved local cultural regeneration. The prominent 1960s pumping station is no longer just a functional site. It is now a vibrant feature on the newly revitalised Chatham Waterfront.
The artwork itself is a 20-metre tiled mural. Hundreds of hand-painted tiles make up the piece. The project perfectly blends necessary engineering with great public art.
Big Spending on Greener Flood Protection
The core reason for the major spending was to replace old, polluting machines. This vital machinery manages surface water run-off before it flows into the River Medway. Before the upgrade, old diesel engines powered the station’s flood-control systems.
Southern Water spent £750,000 on the changes. New, greener electric motors were installed. They now drive the station’s four giant Archimedes Screws.
These screws are the heart of the town’s flood defence. They lift massive amounts of water during the worst storms. This action stops the surrounding urban areas from flooding.
The switch to electric motors is a big deal. It cuts down on pollution and makes the operation much more efficient and reliable.
Important Engineering Details
The upgrade began in early September and finished in late November 2025. It included more than just motor changes. Engineers also handled other essential maintenance.
They put in a new tidal flap. Think of it as a strong, one-way door. This door lets flood water out into the river. But, it stops high-tide river water from rushing back into the drainage system. Engineers also replaced the bearings on the Archimedes Screws.
Alex Saunders is the Director of Wastewater Operations at Southern Water. He stressed the importance of the investment. Saunders said the new equipment is a “massive move forwards.” It will help mitigate the localised flooding that has happened repeatedly during heavy rain. This gives residents and businesses much greater security.
Art Transforms the Waterfront
The pump station’s high-profile spot inspired local cultural leaders. They saw a chance to commission a major piece of public art.
The Medway Development Company spearheaded the artistic commission. It had strong support from the Medway Development Corporation and the Medway Council Culture Team. Notably, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands also offered support.
The resulting mural is massive. It covers the station’s formerly plain red-brick wall. The piece consists of 612 ceramic tiles. Every tile was painted by hand. This beautiful artwork instantly changes the building. It moves it from a simple utility structure to a key cultural landmark for the Chatham Waterfront area.
Local History and International Art
Two skilled artists created the mural. They are British public artist Nicole Mollett and Dutch ceramicist José den Hartog.
The involvement of the Dutch Embassy is fitting. It reflects the long history of Dutch expertise in water management.
The artists took inspiration from Chatham’s past. They studied the maritime history, the River Medway’s ecology, and the genius of waterworks engineering.
To capture the local feel, the artists researched local archives and the Historic Dockyard. They also ran workshops to involve the community and gather stories.
The mural’s background uses a technique called Suminagashi. This is a traditional Japanese method of floating ink on water. It made sure the water’s own natural character influenced the final design. The detailed ceramic pieces were mounted onto this fluid backdrop. The finished artwork is a powerful story. It celebrates the river as a core part of the town’s identity.
Local Leaders Support Dual Project
Local figures have praised the project. They see the blend of infrastructure and art as a major confidence boost for Chatham.
Tris Osborne, the Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford, visited the site. He strongly welcomed the money spent on flood protection. He noted the urgent need for better resilience. The MP pointed out the severe flooding in 2024 that badly hit the High Street.
Councillor Simon Curry from Medway Council also applauded the work. As the Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Strategic Regeneration, he stressed the value of the investment. Curry highlighted that using greener technology was a major positive. He also loved the new public artwork, urging residents to see it as a central part of Chatham’s renewal.
Boosting Business Confidence
The local business sector also offered a positive reaction.
Charlene Malone manages the Pentagon Shopping Centre nearby. She said the Rats Bay upgrades do more than just improve community resilience. They also give confidence to local businesses and visitors. Removing the risk of flood damage takes a huge weight off the local economy.
Malone called the combination “inspiring.” She felt it was brilliant to pair essential engineering fixes with a striking artwork that celebrates the town.
A Legacy of Protection
The Rats Bay Pumping Station has been a key part of Chatham’s flood safety since the 1960s. The site is in a crucial location. It handles storm run-off before it can flood the low-lying town centre.
Southern Water’s big investment shows a crucial trend. City drainage systems must be updated due to climate change. More frequent and intense rainfall is now the norm.
The new electric motors are more reliable and efficient. They allow the site to handle sudden water surges much better. This move ensures the site is ready for the future while cutting its energy impact.
This successful project is a great example for other areas. It shows how vital utility work can be made part of wider city renewal. Through both great engineering and beautiful art, the pumping station is now a celebrated structure on the Chatham waterfront. It is ready to protect the people of Chatham for many more years.
