The £300m initiative from Thames Water aims to bolster the strategic resource options framework, with the Arup Binnies joint venture chosen as a key player in leading three projects
The strategic resource options framework is essential for addressing the evolving needs of the community and the environment and is guided by a gated process prescribed by the Regulators’ Alliance for Progressing Infrastructure Development (RAPID).
It ensures adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements throughout the development cycle.
The Arup Binnies JV is poised to lead three pivotal SRO programmes
South East Strategic Reservoir Option
A new reservoir in the Upper Thames catchment to store water abstracted from the river during high flow periods, which would then be released for use during high demand periods.
Severn to Thames Transfer
The transfer of water from the River Severn to the River Thames, either by means of a new pipeline or the restoration of the Cotswold canals.
London Water Recycling
Water abstracted from the Thames will be replaced with recycled water from treatment works, enabling access to additional resources from the river while maintaining river levels, protecting the riverine habitats.
The new framework encompasses a comprehensive array of services across dozens of disciplines, including engineering, environment, planning, land, engagement, project management, and consultation analysis.
Tackling water shortages in the UK caused by the climate emergency
Arup incoming chair, UK, India, Middle East, and Africa Region, Paula Walsh, commented: “Arup is proud to be a global leader in water solutions, with significant experience in the UK delivering work for Thames Tideway Tunnel, the Environment Agency, and Natural Resources Wales among many others.
“We are honoured to be invited to collaboratively support Thames Water’s ambition for more sustainable water solutions. The complexity and challenges of these projects is significant, but with our diverse experience we look forward to developing nature-led sustainable designs for these major new pieces of infrastructure.
“We have all seen first-hand how the climate emergency is causing water shortages in the UK. We are proud and ready to act to bring more secure, sustainable, and resilient solutions that leave a legacy for future generations.
