Anglian Water has embarked on an ambitious £11 billion investment programme for the eighth asset management period (AMP8), covering the years 2025 to 2030. This new initiative marks a renewal of its partnership with the Integrated Operational Solutions (IOS) Alliance, comprising longstanding collaborators Barhale, Kier, and M Group. This five-year contract is set to channel approximately £400 million into vital projects, which will include everything from the installation of new water mains to complex maintenance of essential infrastructure like pumping stations.
The IOS Alliance’s renewed commitment underlines a decade of collaboration focused on specialised water and recycling projects, serving the needs of a rapidly growing population in the East of England. With projections indicating that the region is set to accommodate over 720,000 new residents over the next twenty years, these investments are crucial for improving the resilience of the water network and for addressing the dire impacts of climate change. Significant improvements are anticipated, encompassing over 1,000 kilometres of water main replacements, completion of a strategic water grid, and the construction of two new reservoirs aimed at bolstering supply.
Anglian Water’s strategic plan represents a near doubling of investment compared to the previous five years, signalling a significant shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. This major investment initiative highlights the company’s commitment to environmental improvements and infrastructure enhancements, vital for sustaining the East of England’s urban and economic growth.
The IOS Alliance is designed to function under a singular commercial framework, which encourages seamless collaboration among its members, thereby optimising expertise and operational solutions that ultimately benefit both the environment and the customer base. Melissa Reynard, delivery director at Anglian Water, articulated the advantages of this approach in stating, “Our alliancing model here at Anglian Water is an exemplar in the industry, allowing us to deliver the best outcomes for our customers and for our region’s environment.”
Indeed, the collaborative ethos is echoed by other alliance members. Joe Solomon, Barhale’s regional director for the Eastern region, welcomed the prospect of furthering their partnership, stating the team is “looking forward to playing a key role in the region’s largest-ever water investment programme.” Kier’s managing director, Andy Lingham, affirmed the collective ambition of all partners, stating, “Together, we’re not just delivering projects — we’re helping shape a resilient future for the communities we serve.”
Anglian Water is also continuing its successful @one Alliance, which is expected to deliver a record £2.6 billion in investments, addressing critical challenges such as environmental protection and climate resilience. The @one Alliance features notable partners including Balfour Beatty, Barhale, Mott MacDonald Bentley, MWH Treatment, Skanska, and SWECO. This coalition has previously delivered £1.3 billion worth of work in AMP7 and seeks to build on those accomplishments over the next five years.
The comprehensive plans not only promise significant advancements in infrastructure but are also expected to create numerous local job opportunities, supporting the ongoing urbanisation and economic development in the region. As Anglian Water leads the way in alliancing within the water sector, its innovative approach positions it advantageously to tackle the unprecedented scale of investment required for future challenges.
In an increasingly uncertain climate, the resilience and sustainability of water management are paramount, making these investments more than mere fiscal commitments; they are essential steps in safeguarding the environment and supporting demographic growth in one of the UK’s most vital regions.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
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