Bam Nuttall has been awarded a £9.5 million contract to enhance flood risk management for the Upper Thurne catchment in the Norfolk Broads, a project critical to the region's environmental resilience.
What Happened
Bam Nuttall, a leader in civil engineering and construction, will undertake the design and construction of three new pumping stations at Martham, Potter Heigham, and Brograve. This project is part of the Upper Thurne Construction Works programme, funded by the Environment Agency Grant in Aid, and is essential for upgrading the flood risk management infrastructure in the area. The contract, signed with the Broads Internal Drainage Board (BIDB) on April 14, 2026, under the NEC4 ECC Option A framework, is scheduled to run until September 2028, with a potential extension to 2029 if additional work is added. The new infrastructure will replace existing stations, which will be decommissioned upon completion.
Why It Matters for the AECM Industry
This contract emphasizes the growing demand for specialized flood management solutions, a pressing concern amid increasing climate change impacts. For the AECM industry, this project offers insights into managing complex environmental projects with strict compliance and performance metrics. The contract mandates high standards, including over 90% first-time acceptance of design submissions and zero environmental incidents, highlighting the importance of precision and sustainability in engineering solutions. Additionally, Bam Nuttall's comprehensive scope, covering civil, mechanical, and electrical upgrades, reflects the need for multidisciplinary expertise in modern infrastructure projects.
What's Next
The project includes an option for further expansion within 12 months, potentially adding either the Somerton South or Repps pumping station, indicating ongoing opportunities for contractors in flood management projects. Industry professionals should monitor the project's progress, particularly its adherence to environmental and performance benchmarks, as these could set precedents for future infrastructure contracts.
Source: https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/bam-nuttall-wins-9-5m-upper-thurne-flood-risk-contract-08-05-2026/. Read the original story ->
