The £45 million Faringdon to Blunsdon Trunk Main project represents a critical investment in water resilience to ensure consistent water distribution across the region. This 13.7 km pipeline enhances reliability for over thousands residents, reflecting our commitment to delivering infrastructure with lasting value.
Project value
£45m
Pipeline length
13.7km
Efficiency through innovation
Efficiency was at the forefront of the project, achieved through advanced project management and technology. With Short Interval Control (SIC) systems ensuring consistent quality and productivity and the deployment of the UK’s largest Automatic Butt Fusion Welder, our productivity improved by c.25%, as borne out by the manufacturer’s own research. The adoption of digital site diaries further streamlined operations, demonstrating our ability to integrate innovation into every project phase.
"We’re proud to be using our expertise to deliver this vital project for Swindon. It’s a complex piece of work, and we've taken an innovative approach to ensure it’s being delivered efficiently to a high-quality, and in a way which protects the local environment."
Andy Muncer, project director, Kier Natural Resources, Nuclear & Networks
Social and environmental sustainability
Sustainability guided every aspect of the project. Our team conducted rigorous environmental assessments and collaborated with experts to minimise impact on local ecosystems and archaeology. Enhancements included owl boxes, native tree planting, and wildflower habitats to support biodiversity. Our dedication to social value extended to donating materials locally and supporting recycling initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to responsible construction.
"It’s our job to deliver a safe and secure supply of water for all our customers. Our new water transfer pipe will build resilience across Swindon and ensure we keep the taps flowing for future generations. The pipeline will also benefit the local environment, reducing reliance on groundwater sources that draw from chalk streams and the River Kennet during high demand and drought conditions."
Chris Reeves, Head of Programme Delivery, Thames Water
Transformative scale and outcomes for the water sector
This extensive project sets a benchmark for regional water infrastructure, reinforcing resilience across Thames Water’s network. Spanning 13.7 km, the pipeline ensures stable, long-term water supply and mitigates service interruptions. The efficient completion of final sections, including polyethylene, ductile, and steel pipe installations, underscores our capability to deliver infrastructure that meets the evolving demands of the water sector.
Phase 3 completion:
6.4km
Legacy of community inclusion
Throughout the project, the our team fostered a culture of inclusion, with diversity initiatives and a respectful work environment as priorities. This approach strengthened our project outcomes and positively impacted the local community.
Final project milestones
The final project phase involved installing 5.7 km of 1200mm polyethylene pipe, 480 metres of 1000mm ductile pipe, and 220 metres of steel pipe across two tunnels. With the pipeline now commissioned, full completion is anticipated by November 2024, marking a significant achievement for water infrastructure.
