Ofwat launches new gated process for major infrastructure projects

(by Karma Loveday)

Ofwat has launched a new Major Water Infrastructure Programme combined gated process that brings together RAPID’s oversight of early water infrastructure project development and Ofwat’s major projects team's regulation of later stage project delivery.

The new programme contains 30 large-scale water infrastructure projects which will be delivered over the next 15 years. The projects included are RAPID Strategic Resource Options and/or projects meeting the criteria for delivery by competitively tendered models — those using Direct Procurement for Customers or Specified Infrastructure Project Regulations procurement.

RAPID and Ofwat’s major projects team continue to carry out their regulatory roles, but now operating using a single, combined process featuring six gates, A to F. The first two gates, dealing with design and feasibility, are managed by RAPID; before projects transition to Ofwat for the remaining gates which focus on the commercial and procurement approach.

Ofwat said the changes aim to optimise the delivery of an overall pipeline that is critical for securing future supplies, but will also bring wide-ranging economic benefits.

• RAPID has confirmed that further funding will be allowed for Grand Union Canal Strategic Resource Option and the associated Minworth water recycling to progress to gate four. The scheme is being developed by Affinity Water and Severn Trent.