United Utilities prepares for AMP8 with new consultancy appointments.
- Thirteen consultancy companies selected for network modelling and design.
- Ofwat’s approval pending for United Utilities’ 2025-2030 spending plan.
- James Simpson highlights partners’ role in future infrastructure improvements.
- Specialists to drive nature-based design and rainwater management strategies.
United Utilities, in anticipation of its upcoming eighth asset management period (AMP8), has strategically appointed thirteen consultancy companies to aid in the development and enhancement of its water and wastewater services. This move comes as the company awaits regulatory approval from Ofwat for its proposed financial plan covering 2025 to 2030.
Following a thorough tender process, the companies selected for network modelling support include AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs, Stantec, Binnies, Mott MacDonald, RPS, and WSP. These firms are tasked with providing crucial modelling support for United Utilities’ extensive water and wastewater infrastructure. Their role is pivotal in enabling the company to make well-informed decisions regarding operations and capital investments in improving service delivery.
In addition to these seven, six more firms—Aqua Consultants, GHD, Long O Donnell Associates, Metis Consultants, Ove Arup & Partners, and Systra—have been chosen as specialist design and development partners. These specialists are expected to contribute their expertise towards crafting natural solutions in collaboration with United Utilities’ engineering teams. Their efforts will focus on innovative designs, particularly involving rainwater management and other nature-centric interventions.
Capital delivery director, Jane Simpson, emphasised the importance of these collaborations, stating that these expert partners would significantly influence United Utilities’ ambition to enhance infrastructure for the future. “Our new network modelling partners will help us make informed decisions across operations and capital investment programmes by monitoring rivers, catchment land, and coastal infrastructure to see where we can improve our services and meet supply needs of the future,” she explained.
Previously, in July, United Utilities had already established a partnership with AtkinsRéalis, Mott MacDonald, and Stantec as part of its design and development strategy for the forthcoming AMP8 period. Additionally, the firm had previously engaged seven other companies for broad project management, design, engineering, and construction services, indicating its comprehensive approach towards improving infrastructure.
Moreover, United Utilities has enlisted eighteen design and build contractors to commence various infrastructure improvement projects. Notable contractors such as AE Yates, Barhale, and Bethell, among others, will be directly involved in enhancing the network infrastructure, clearly demonstrating United Utilities’ commitment to investing in and upgrading its services.
United Utilities is actively fortifying its infrastructure by engaging strategic consultancy partnerships ahead of AMP8.
