Arup, the global engineering and built environment consultancy, has signed contracts with STRABAG UK to deliver design services for the Haweswater Aqueduct Resilience Programme (HARP), one of the largest water infrastructure projects in the UK.
The programme, led by United Utilities, aims to safeguard the long-term water supply for over two million people across Cumbria, Lancashire and Greater Manchester, ensuring reliable access to clean water for generations to come.
Constructed between 1933 and 1955, the Haweswater Aqueduct currently supplies 570 million litres of drinking water daily from the Lake District to the North West. As part of HARP, more than 50 kilometres of ageing tunnel infrastructure will be replaced within the 110km-long aqueduct – the UK’s largest treated water aqueduct.
Arup’s appointment reflects its strong partnership with STRABAG UK, having initially supported the STRABAG Equitix Consortium (now Cascade Infrastructure Ltd) during the tender phase in 2023. The consultancy will now deliver a wide range of services including:
- Water and hydraulic engineering
- Tunnelling and ground engineering
- Civil, structural, and materials engineering
- MEICA and process engineering
- Planning, environmental, and sustainability services
- Programme management and digital delivery
Catherine Wenger, Water Business Leader at Arup, said:
“Supporting STRABAG UK in delivering HARP is the latest in a long line of essential water projects we are working on across the UK. This aligns fully with our sustainability goals and commitment to resilient infrastructure. We are proud to play a role in ensuring secure, clean water supply for communities in Greater Manchester and the North West.”
Andrew Dixon, Managing Director (Commercial) at STRABAG UK, added:
“We’re pleased to continue our collaboration with Arup on this landmark project. Together with our delivery partners, we aim to deliver best value, engage with local communities, and create opportunities for skills development and long-term employment in the North West.”
The Haweswater Aqueduct Resilience Programme is regarded as a landmark infrastructure scheme that will help modernize the UK’s water supply system, balancing engineering excellence with environmental and community benefits.
