Thames Water Desalination Plant
Project Introduction
The client for this project is Thames Water
Utilities Ltd. The Environmental Impact Assessment commenced in
2002 and construction of the desalination plant and associated
pipeline will commence in 2007.
Project Background
Thames Water is constructing a desalination
plant at Beckton Sewage Treatment Works in London. A new high
pressure main will transfer desalinated water to Woodford
Reservoir, located adjacent to the North Circular road (A406). Both
the water treatment plant and main plant are part of a programme of
new investment in the water supply network in East London, which is
required by Ofwat to overcome potential resource shortfalls during
dry periods.
Project Scope
Scott Wilson carried out a detailed
multi-species and habitat ecological survey, development of
mitigation proposals and production of an Ecological Impact
Assessment (EcIA). We also undertook an Appropriate Assessment
under the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c) Regulations 1994
(amended 2007) relating to the high pressure main which will run
through part of Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation - a site
of European importance for its woodlands.
Value Adding Project
Achievements
In addition to the Ecological Impact
Assessment and Appropriate Assessment, Scott Wilson were required
to use our expertise in habitat management to design a detailed
scheme for the temporary translocation and subsequent replacement
of several hectares of rare acid grassland from within the pipeline
route across Wanstead Flats., Such schemes are at the cutting edge
of ecological consultancy and require a novel solution to be
devised, along with detailed research and consultation with Epping
Forest Conservators and specialist contractors. As a result of our
detailed proposals the pipeline was granted planning
permission.
