Grontmij undertook a Sustainability Assessment of Project Aquatrine. Project Aquatrine is one of the MOD’s largest PFIs worth over £1bn over 25 years, and comprises consortia running the MOD’s water and wastewater assets, infrastructure and services. The sustainability appraisal was required as part of the MOD’s commitment to the Government’s strategy for sustainable development and focused on strategic issues and management processes. The brief also included developing a forward-looking strategy to further incorporate the principles of sustainable development into the running of the project.

Grontmij developed a bespoke appraisal methodology, incorporating the use of sustainability indices within the MOD’s own appraisal system. The work involved providing a qualitative assessment of sustainability performance and identifying priorities for further action and gains. Workshops were undertaken to build sustainability within the project team and to transfer ownership of sustainability management and target setting to the project management organisation.

Grontmij is also currently appointed to the Project Aquatrine East Prime Contractor design team for design and build projects for water and waste water infrastructure to update the water and waste water facilities on MOD establishments on the east of England. Over the last three years, 35 projects have been completed, including drainage studies, treatment plant upgrades, crown fire installations and improvements to both water supply and drainage systems.  The majority of sites are RAF bases, requiring a full understanding of working “airside”. Security is also a key theme with all schemes, requiring Grontmij to ensure all employees are security cleared, and secure systems are in place for document management. Schemes range in value from £30k to £3m and Grontmij has undertaken approximately £2.5m fee work for this client.