Driving sustainable solutions in Water

The water sector is facing increasing pressure. In 2024, Ofwat issued £168m in fines for sewage discharges, highlighting the urgent need for pollution prevention and long-term solutions. At the same time, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of rainfall, putting further stress, which will only increase over time, on ageing sewer networks. Addressing these challenges requires a more resilient and environmentally responsible approach.

At Ipsum, we are asset stewards, working closely with clients to apply our expertise and experience in delivering practical solutions that benefit communities and the environment. A core part of this approach is our dedicated trenchless (“no-dig”) division, which is helping Water companies and businesses implement innovative sewer rehabilitation projects across the UK.

Trenchless technology

Trenchless methods offer a cleaner, faster, and more sustainable alternative to traditional open-cut techniques. By accessing sewers through manholes and installing cured-in-place liners, we restore infrastructure to full operating capacity while:

• Minimising environmental damage as the surrounding ecosystem is not excavated.
• Reducing disruption as a result of fewer road closures, traffic diversions, and minimise the impact on the local community.
• Cutting waste and material use as there is no extensive excavation or backfill required.
• Lowering carbon emissions by at least 85% in delivery. This saving is far greater when the reduction of delivery time and road closures is considered.

Dale Road Spills scheme

One of the most striking examples is the Dale Road sewer rehabilitation project in Youlgrave, Derbyshire, alongside the River Bradford. The sewer had points of infiltration, creating a pollution risk. Previous patch repairs proved ineffective.

Working in one of the Peak District’s most environmentally sensitive areas required a meticulous, adaptive approach. Limited access, high groundwater, and environmental protection constraints meant traditional excavation was not a viable option. Using advanced trenchless methods including UV CIPP liners, QuickLock end seals, Electroscan fault diagnosis, and the IMS UV rig, our team delivered a full-system rehabilitation that was safer, more sustainable, and more cost-effective than any previous attempt.

Despite weather-related pauses, the project was completed on time and under budget, with zero safety incidents. Community engagement, including local notices, townhall meetings, and clear signage, kept residents and visitors informed and supportive throughout.

ESG and environmental impact

Delivering this project using traditional methods would have had serious environmental consequences. Requiring the clearing of trees and other vegetation to enable excavators and tippers on site. The noise and localised pollution would have exacerbated the environmental damage and the entire site would have had to be closed off. Instead, our trenchless approach avoided these issues and enabled us to protect the riverbank, preserve biodiversity and maintain access to the area for the public. Additionally, we estimate that we reduced emissions by over 105 tonnes of CO² (a 95% reduction) and prevented the excavation, disposal and refill of ~2 tonnes of soil. Robust governance and community engagement ensured a safe, long-term, sustainable solution.

Looking to the future

As we continue to grow our trenchless capability, expanding our team, and investing in new equipment, projects like Dale Road illustrate the transformative impact we can have on the UK’s water infrastructure, communities and environment.

With AMP8’s emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, enhancing water efficiency, and promoting biodiversity, solutions like the Ipsum’s Trenchless Technologies offering will be more prevalent than ever.

Read Ipsum’s 2024 Impact Report