The Burnley scheme, commissioned by United Utilities, came out top in the Medium Project of the Year category amid intense competition from six excellent civil engineering projects. The British Dam Society had earlier described the scheme as “an exemplary case study” of its kind. 

Improvement works on the two reservoirs at Swinden and Lee Green, considered pioneering examples of civil engineering from the industrial revolution, focused on improving overflow and spillway facilities to ensure the reservoirs do not overflow in flooding conditions. 

Working amid harsh winter conditions, VolkerStevin successfully delivered a programme of reservoir improvements including a new ‘labyrinth’ weir and tumble bay, several new spillway channels, two overflow weirs, a stilling basin and new over bridges. The project was also awarded the Green Apple Award for environmental best practice by The Green Organisation; a testament to the effort made to protect the environment during the design and construction of this reservoir project. 

Richard Birchall, project manager at VolkerStevin commented: “It is a privilege for the team to receive the ICE North West award for the Swinden and Lee Green reservoir improvement works. We are delighted that the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in making this challenging project a success has been recognised.” 

United Utilities project manager, Jonathan Clarke said: “Despite the harsh environment the quality of the asset delivered is excellent. This was a fantastic accomplishment given the challenging conditions.” 

Alan Butler, North West regional director of the Institution of Civil Engineers, commented on the annual awards ceremony: “Most members of the public never see this kind of civil engineering work, but it’s a really vital part of how we manage our water supplies and minimise flood risks at a time when we’re having to adapt to climate change. 

“That’s why we hold the ‘Engineering Oscars’ every year, to help showcase some of the excellent civil engineering that’s happening around the North West. In this case we’re looking at a challenging project completed on schedule, with a brilliant safety record in the hazardous conditions of a very severe winter. 

“This is a great example of the innovation and the civil engineering genius that go into providing the North West with world-class infrastructure, while improving our environment and benefiting our economy.”

For further information on the North West Civil Engineering Awards, please visit the ICE North West website

ICE North West Civil Engineering Awards ceremony images courtesy of Paul Kyte