A Year in Water Review: Networks November Kick-Off

We kicked off Networks November with A Year in Water Review at SEC Newgate UK, bringing together members, partners, and water sector professionals to share insights, discuss challenges, and explore the future of our sector.

Here’s how the day unfolded:

Opening Remarks

Imogen Fawcett set the scene, highlighting the pivotal moment the sector is in and the importance of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion.

Inclusion & Representation

Philip Barnaby (SGB Civils) reflected on Black History Month discussions and prompted conversations around:

• Representation of all communities in the water supply chain
• Encouraging diverse talent to join a sector that reflects and fulfills them

Safeguarding Our Water

Nicci Russell (Waterwise) gave a passionate talk on protecting our water for the future, reflecting on the progress and challenges 6 months into AMP8.

Collaboration & Supply Chain Insights

Martin Greenhalgh (AVK International) and Daniel Reilly (Horizon Water Infrastructure) explored:

• How the Cunliffe report can drive meaningful change
• Moving from talking about collaboration to achieving outcome-focused partnerships
• Engaging the right stakeholders to drive change and involve consumers

Building a Future-Ready Supply Chain

Kate Lloyd (CECA Policy) and David Coxhead (Wolseley Group) discussed:

• The four C’s – Confidence, clarity, consistency, and collaboration
• The importance of pipeline visibility for manufacturers, distributors, and contractors
• Workforce pressures and planning across Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors

Flood Resilience in Practice

Simon Crowther (FPS Environmental) showcased practical property flood resilience projects, emphasizing how following the CIRIA C790 code ensures true resilience.

Looking to the Future of Water

Dr Bhavik Barochia (Arup) presented:

• AMP8 expenditure analysis and the need to move from reactive to proactive strategies
• Wastewater surveillance for public health and environmental monitoring
• How water insights can inform healthier communities and ecosystems

Standards & Regulation

David Smoker shared notes on the draft IGN 4-00-03, using Concept Relation Diagrams to illustrate the interconnections between government, regulations, and accreditation. Feedback can be submitted via the Water UK Standards Board webpage.

Key Takeaways from the Day:

• Water is shared, precious, and central to every community
• Collaboration must focus on outcomes, not just processes
• Supply chains and consumers can be powerful drivers of change
• A proactive approach is essential for the sector’s future