OCU’s water teams have achieved a series of award wins this year, recognising our commitment to innovation, technical excellence and sustainable delivery across some of the UK’s most complex water infrastructure programmes.
From specialist trenchless equipment to low-carbon solutions, these accolades reflect the strength of our engineering capability and the collaborative way we work with clients and partners to deliver essential infrastructure for communities nationwide.
Pioneering trenchless methods
One of our most celebrated projects this year is the Vyrnwy Aqueduct Modernisation Programme (VAMP), delivered for United Utilities. As part of this scheme, OCU designed and deployed a bespoke 200-tonne multidiameter pipe pusher – a first-of-its-kind in the UK.
Affectionately nicknamed ‘George’, the pipe pusher enables sliplining of up to 2km of 900mm OD pipe in a single operation, dramatically improving safety, efficiency and environmental performance on large-diameter water mains. This technological breakthrough secured the ‘Innovative Technology Award’ at the UK Society for Trenchless Technology Awards, recognising its positive impact on modern water delivery.
Shortly after, the same approach earned further industry acclaim at the Pipeline Industries Guild Awards, where OCU and United Utilities received the ‘Large Diameter Pipeline Technology Award’.
Both awards underscore how cutting-edge innovation, when paired with trusted partnerships, can unlock smarter and more sustainable ways of working.
Engineering-led outcomes that benefit communities
The Vyrnwy project exemplifies OCU’s approach to delivery, combining technical problem-solving with a clear focus on community outcomes. By increasing the distance that pipes can be installed in a single operation, ‘George’ reduces the need for excavations, temporary traffic controls and associated disruption. It also improves site safety by minimising plant-person interface and allowing full control from a remote cabin.
The unit’s performance to date has helped accelerate delivery on critical infrastructure programmes, reinforcing our ability to support our clients at every stage from concept to commissioning.
Recognised for impact on decarbonisation
OCU has also been recognised for our contribution to low-carbon infrastructure delivery. We’ve been shortlisted for three categories at the upcoming Utility Week Awards:
Infrastructure Delivery
Delivery Partner
Carbon Reduction
These nominations are linked to our work on the Affinity Water reservoirs programme, where OCU has helped deliver a package of complex works including major MEICA upgrades, access road construction and sustainable asset commissioning.
The results of the Utility Week Awards are yet to be announced, but the triple shortlisting alone reflects OCU’s growing reputation as a leader in environmentally responsible infrastructure.
Driving progress across the UK water network
From long-distance aqueducts to strategic reservoirs, pipeline upgrades to emergency response works, OCU continues to help shape the future of UK water infrastructure. These latest achievements build on more than 20 years of industry experience and reinforce the Group’s reputation as a reliable, forward-thinking water industry partner.
We remain committed to developing innovative construction methods, investing in modern technology and delivering projects in a way that protects the environment, supports communities and ensures resilience for future generations.
About OCU Group
OCU is leading the way in energy transition and utilities contracting as an innovative service provider, operating on a national scale.
Our two decades of experience in the water industry has built a reputation for delivering the full spectrum of water and wastewater treatment projects, with turnkey solutions for design, installation, and commissioning.
Our regular, reactive, and emergency support is relied upon by a broad range of water companies all over the UK, with an efficient, effective and environmentally friendly water and wastewater service.
The Group delivers a wide range of client focused business solutions throughout the UK and Ireland, working with a large blue-chip client base in all utility areas including Water, Power, Energy, Telecoms, Rail and Directional Drilling.
