The Water Hub is a research, innovation and training centre located on a decommissioned wastewater treatment plant in Franschoek, in the Western Cape. The hub is close to an informal settlement that has over 6000 residents.

The old wastewater plant near the settlement no longer receives sewage. The Water Hub plans to modify and use existing infrastructure to introduce ways of treating contaminated water by using biofiltration beds, wetlands and ponds, and floating wetlands.

The hub’s ultimate plan is to create a research and innovation centre that will improve the understanding of technologies and how people interact with these systems. This information will be imparted to future generations.

Source: Kevin Winter