Client

United Utilities

Value

£90K

Location

Rockliffe

The project

Rockcliffe Wastewater Treatment Works forms part of United Utilities’ Better Rivers Combined Sewer Overflow Programme, driven by regulatory requirements to reduce the frequency of storm overflows and improve water quality. The works are located at Rockcliffe Wastewater Treatment Works in Cumbria, within a highly sensitive environmental setting close to the River Eden Special Area of Conservation and Site of Special Scientific Interest, and within a designated flood risk zone.

United Utilities appointed Story Contracting under an Early Contractor Involvement arrangement to provide constructability input, programme optimisation and environmental risk management support. The main scheme proposes the replacement of an existing above‑ground tank with a new precast balancing tank, enhancing storm storage performance while minimising environmental impact and disruption to ongoing site operations.

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Story Contracting is delivering the initial phase of the project, comprising the installation of a haul road and hardstanding to support welfare set‑up ahead of the subsequent main scheme.

Associated works include temporary works installation, establishment of the site compound, and haul road construction within an adjacent agricultural field. The scope also includes service identification and protection, and full reinstatement of the land on completion.

Early contractor involvement enabled Story to influence key design and methodology decisions, particularly the adoption of precast construction to shorten the programme and reduce ecological risk. Constructability reviews considered flood risk, temporary balancing requirements, access constraints and service interfaces, ensuring the proposed solution could be safely and efficiently delivered.

Ecological sensitivity was a critical driver throughout. The works are subject to bat roost exclusion zones, potential wintering bird constraints and proximity to designated habitats. Story supported the development of mitigation measures, programming options and environmental controls, including noise, lighting and pollution prevention, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining progress against United Utilities’ spill reduction drivers.

Story’s approach focused on proactive risk management, early stakeholder engagement and collaborative planning. Working closely with United Utilities, environmental specialists and regulators, the team identified constraints at an early stage and developed practical mitigation measures aligned to programme and operational priorities.

The works are being self‑delivered by an experienced site management team, supported by specialist temporary works expertise. A strong emphasis has been placed on safety, environmental stewardship and considerate working practices, ensuring the works are delivered responsibly while protecting sensitive habitats and maintaining positive relationships with landowners and local stakeholders.

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