AECOM appointed as exclusive design partner for major Thames Water infrastructure project
AECOM has been appointed by Murphy as the exclusive multidisciplinary design partner for Thames Water’s £340 million upgrade of Oxford Sewage Treatment Works, supporting one of the utility’s largest wastewater infrastructure investments under the UK’s Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8).
The project will increase treatment capacity by around 40%, helping Thames Water accommodate future population growth while improving effluent quality discharged into the River Thames.
The upgrade forms part of Thames Water’s wider AMP8 capital investment programme and includes improvements to power supplies, increased storm tank capacity and higher sewage treatment flows to strengthen long-term network resilience.
Supporting future wastewater capacity
The Oxford Sewage Treatment Works upgrade is designed to deliver greater wastewater treatment capacity while improving environmental performance and reducing the frequency of storm overflows.
The investment will help ensure wastewater services continue to meet increasing demand across Oxfordshire while supporting improved river water quality.
“Upgrading these major sewage treatment works is critical for facilitating growth and protecting the environment for communities in Oxfordshire,” said Dr Beverley Stinson, Chief Executive of AECOM’s global Water business.
“AECOM is the world’s number one water design firm, and we are proud to bring our global technical excellence to support Thames Water provide a significant increase in treatment capacity. Key to success is harnessing our world-leading technology and AI solutions to deliver more efficient, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure for the future.”
Building on longstanding partnerships
Richard Whitehead, Chief Executive of AECOM’s Europe and India region, said the award further strengthens the company’s position within the UK water sector.
“AECOM continues to strengthen its position in the UK water market, and we look forward to helping deliver cleaner waterways for communities in Oxfordshire and beyond.
“Building on our proud legacy as a trusted partner to the industry, this award reinforces our longstanding relationship with Thames Water. By continuing our successful collaboration with Murphy, we are bringing together the best skills and expertise to help Thames Water enhance its services for customers.”
David Mayfield, Senior Project Manager at Thames Water, said the investment would improve both operational resilience and environmental performance.
“This upgrade to Oxford Sewage Treatment Works represents a significant investment in the long-term resilience and environmental performance of our wastewater network.
“By working closely with AECOM and our delivery partner Murphy, we’re ensuring that Oxfordshire’s growing communities benefit from an upgraded, future-ready treatment facility that safeguards our waterways, enhances capacity and provides a resilient wastewater service, with fewer storm overflows for years to come.”
Part of Thames Water’s AMP8 investment programme
The appointment builds on AECOM’s previous involvement in the upgrade of Thames Water’s Deephams Sewage Treatment Works, delivered alongside Murphy and Kier.
It also follows several recent AMP8 framework appointments across the UK water sector, including Thames Water’s professional services framework and Southern Water’s capital delivery programme.
For more information, visit AECOM.
Read more H2O Global News coverage of wastewater and water treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Oxford Sewage Treatment Works project?
It is a £340 million infrastructure upgrade designed to increase wastewater treatment capacity by approximately 40% while improving environmental performance.
Who is delivering the project?
Murphy is the delivery partner, with AECOM appointed as the exclusive multidisciplinary design partner for the scheme.
Why is the investment needed?
The upgrade will support population growth, improve wastewater treatment, increase storm storage capacity and help reduce storm overflows into the River Thames.
