United Utilities has named another 18 supply partners that will deliver upgrades to water network infrastructure across the North West, as part of a £13.7 billion investment programme.
The announcement of these detailed Design & Build partners for the next regulatory cycle, AMP8 (April 2025 to March 2030), follows the appointment of C2V (VolkerStevin/Jacobs JV), Costain, Jacobs, Murphy, Kier Integrated Services, Mott Macdonald Bentley, and MWH Treatment to deliver major infrastructure projects for the water company.
What is AMP?
The purpose of Asset Management Plan periods, set by industry regulator Ofwat, is to increase efficiency and service levels within the sector via capital programmes.
In AMP8, water suppliers are facing both environmental and regulatory challenges, including net zero by 2030, reducing sewage spills, and to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The 18 Design & Build partners
AE Yates civil engineering, Barhale, Bethell Group, Eric Wright Civils, Forkers, Murphy, Network Plus, Sapphire, United Living, and Ward & Burke Construction have been appointed to improve network infrastructure.
While Avove utilities, bWGM, Eric Wright Water, Ross-Shire engineering, Glanua, Lagan Infrastructure, Mott MacDonald Bentley, and Stonbury specialist engineers will be working on projects to improve treatment facilities.
The suppliers will be tasked with works aimed at reducing storm overflows as well as upgrading water and wastewater treatment plants in the region, under a programme valued at £2.75 billion.
It is understood the wider investment of £13.7 billion could support 30,000 jobs, including 7,000 across the supply chain.
The water company said further announcements on partners from the local supply chain will be made in the coming months.
Jane Simpson, capital delivery director at United Utilities, said: “We’re really pleased to have chosen 18 great partners who will complement the seven partners that we have already announced to help deliver our ambitious plans and transform our infrastructure across the region.
“For the first time we’re engaging directly with these partners who will do the work, rather than through large management contractors.
“This will allow us to be more agile and ensures we have a mix of partners able to deliver at speed, whilst securing the best value for our customers.”
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