Bredenbury Pressurised Pipeline System
Project Location:
Bredenbury, Herefordshire
Client Name:
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water
Project Description:
OCU delivered the Bredenbury Pressurised Pipeline System for Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water as part of its Main Network Renewal programme. In a predominantly rural area with residential and school premises, OCU replaced 2,700m of spun iron potable water main with polyethylene pipe, alongside a further 1,600m of smaller diameter renewals within the village.
With access constrained by narrow country lanes and B-road approaches, the team planned logistics and stakeholder interfaces carefully, maintaining safe delivery and completing testing, cleansing and commissioning.
Key Stats:
4.3km total polyethylene replacement pipe
2.7km main + 1.6km village renewals
Working within a Main Network Renewal programme
6 Weeks
Duration
Challenge
Rural geography and narrow country lanes created logistical constraints for materials, plant and workforce access
Overhead low-voltage and high-voltage lines increased the risk of utility strikes and required vigilant controls
Access to private land required early engagement, consent and thorough planning before works could commence
Vegetation and low-hanging trees restricted movement of larger vehicles and equipment
Coordination with utilities providers and local government was required to maintain safe and compliant delivery
Solution
Planned deliveries and site movements to suit narrow lanes and limited turning space, maintaining safe access throughout
Implemented robust controls and briefings for working beneath overhead low-voltage and high-voltage infrastructure
Secured landowner consent through proactive communication and clear plans, enabling smooth access to private land
Managed vegetation constraints through careful routing and positioning of plant and equipment
Re-used excavated materials where suitable, supporting efficient reinstatement and reducing waste
Outcome
Successfully completed 4.3km of polyethylene replacement pipe, strengthening the local potable water network
Pressure testing results were extremely positive, supporting confidence in system integrity at commissioning
All water mains and services were cleansed, swabbed and disinfected by OCU prior to commissioning
Efficient reinstatement achieved through re-use of excavated materials where appropriate
Project handed over successfully to Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, providing a renewed asset base for long-term performance
