Seven schools across Sussex will have new technology installed to reduce storm overflows.

As part of a £1.2 million project from Southern Water and the Department for Education, the schools will have “sustainable drainage solutions” installed to slow the flow of water from hard surfaces such as classroom roofs and playgrounds.

The scheme aims to reduce the pressure on sewers and curb the number of storm water releases into the sea and local rivers.

The project is in its second year after more than 40 schools had the system installed.

The schools in Sussex that will take part in the scheme are: Bosham Primary School, Chidham Parochial Primary School in Chichester, Fishbourne CE Primary School, Funtington Primary School near Chichester, Guestling Bradshaw CE Primary School near Hastings, Oakwood School in Chichester and Ore Village Primary Academy in Hastings.

Nicole McNab, Southern Water’s clean rivers and seas task force strategic communications and partnership delivery lead, said: “These schools are playing a big role in our work to reduce storm overflows across our region.

“Their help is making a real difference in reducing the amount of water entering our network and helps us ensure healthier rivers and seas.”