Named contractors on United Utilities' AMP8 frameworks. The UK's largest single utility programme at £13.3bn — the biggest investment in North West water infrastructure in over 100 years. Major Projects Framework, Reservoir Works Framework and Minor Works all appointed.
United Utilities' Major Projects Framework is the largest single AMP8 construction framework in the UK water sector. Seven principal contractors were appointed to deliver the North West's infrastructure transformation programme, covering both water and wastewater capital works.
| Contractor | Framework | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Costain Group plc | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Major infrastructure delivery |
| GHD Ltd | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Engineering and advisory services |
| Jacobs UK Ltd | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Engineering, design and programme management |
| JN Bentley | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Water infrastructure specialist |
| Kier Group | Major Projects Framework | Civil and infrastructure works |
| Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Design and build delivery |
| Murphy Group Ltd | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Civil engineering and utilities |
| MWH Treatment | Major Projects Framework (£2.75bn) | Water and wastewater treatment specialist |
A dedicated £205m framework was awarded in October 2025 for reservoir maintenance, improvement and construction works across United Utilities' estate of reservoirs in the North West. Five specialist civil contractors were appointed.
| Contractor | Framework | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A.E. Yates | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Bolton-based; specialist reservoir and tunnelling contractor, est. 1870 |
| Askam Civil Engineering | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Regional civils specialist |
| Bachy Soletanche | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Ground engineering and specialist civils |
| Bethell Construction | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Civil engineering contractor |
| Cleantech Civils | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Civils specialist |
| JVT Construction Ltd | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Regional construction contractor |
| Stonbury Ltd | Reservoir Works Framework (£205m) | Water infrastructure specialist |
| Contractor | Framework | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United Living Water Ltd | Minor Works Framework | Infrastructure maintenance and minor capital works |
| Jacobs UK Ltd | Operational Audit Framework | Awarded Nov 2025 |
Regional Spend CommitmentUnited Utilities has committed to spending 60p in every £1 within the North West region. This is a formal programme commitment — framework holders and their supply chains are required to demonstrate regional economic contribution.
United Utilities accepted Ofwat's PR24 final determination in January 2025. The £13.3bn gross totex allowance (£12.7bn net of grants) represents the largest investment in North West water infrastructure in over 100 years and is expected to support approximately 30,000 jobs directly and indirectly.
United Utilities raised £800m additional equity in 2025 to fund growth beyond the final determination, signalling confidence in the delivery pipeline.
With £13.3bn of work and eight Major Projects Framework holders, United Utilities represents the single largest supply chain opportunity in AMP8. Tier 1 framework positions are filled, but the Tier 2 and Tier 3 supply chains required to deliver this programme are enormous. Each of the eight Major Projects Framework holders is actively building specialist subcontract supply chains.
The 60p/£1 regional spend commitment means North West-based specialists have a structural advantage. Framework holders are actively seeking regional civils subcontractors, specialist M&E firms, environmental consultants, survey and inspection companies, and treatment plant specialists with North West operational capability.
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