Works are being planned to upgrade the sewage system on an island off the Northumberland coast.

The RSPB has submitted a planning application seeking permission to replace the existing septic tank on Coquet Island with a new sewage treatment plant.

The site is generally unmanned with limited occupancy during the summer months to conduct bird counting.

A planning report on the applicant’s behalf states: “It is proposed that drainage works are to be undertaken on Coquet Island, Amble, to upgrade the off-grid sewage system presently serving the RSPB and Trinity House property on the island.

“At present, the foul drainage on the site is treated via a three stage septic tank system located on the western side of the island. The septic tank gathers foul drainage from the accommodation and discharges via gravity to a sea outfall located on high ground above the beach on the western seashore.

“It is understood that the limited use of the septic tank and cleaning has resulted in discharges to the beach.

"It is proposed that a new packaged treatment plant which operates without power shall be used to accommodate any foul drainage from the properties.”

The RSPB has secured a permit from the Environment Agency for the project.

Works to modernise Coquet Lighthouse and reduce its carbon footprint began in the autumn.

Trinity House, the organisation that builds, maintains and operates lighthouses, lightships, buoys across the UK, is undertaking the works.

It has fitted a modern LED light source inside an historical lens, and will also upgrade the audible hazard warning system and the solar power equipment on station. The project is scheduled for completion by September 2026.