Black & Veatch project wins conservation award

The nitrate treatment plant at Bratch Pumping Station, in Wombourne in the West Midlands, received the award from South Staffordshire Councillor David Billson. The project was “a clever and thoughtful approach to solving a number of technical constraints and issues,” according to award judges.
Black & Veatch was principal contractor on the scheme for Severn Trent Water, with Grontmij providing design services. Bratch Pumping Station provides safe drinking water to an estimated 135,000 customers by ensuring nitrate levels comply with European Union water quality standards.
“Working on the Bratch provided some unique challenges,” said Tony Collins, Managing Director of Black & Veatch’s UK water business. “We are delighted that the team’s excellent work has been recognised through this conservation award.”

The proximity of a Victorian water pumping station to the construction site made the challenge of building the treatment plant more difficult. The award citation commented, “The building has been well thought out – its contemporary architectural style neither cramps nor competes with the exuberant Victorian splendour” of the nearby Grade II* listed pumping station.

The British government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport, awards buildings a listed status if they are decided to be of architectural or historic importance. There are three categories: Grade I - buildings of exceptional interest; Grade II* - buildings of special interest; Grade II - other buildings of special interest.

The Black & Veatch team liaised with Friends of the Bratch, local steam enthusiasts who share the site, to ensure that steam events associated with the pumping station were uninterrupted by the construction work.