OCU and United Utilities Win UKSTT Award for Innovative Technology
We’re delighted to announce that OCU, in partnership with our valued client United Utilities, has been recognised for Innovative Technology at the prestigious UK Society for Trenchless Technology (UKSTT) Awards.
This award highlights our pioneering work on the Vyrnwy Aqueduct Modernisation Project – one of the UK’s largest and most complex water infrastructure renewal programmes. The accolade specifically acknowledges the development and use of our groundbreaking 200-tonne multidiameter pipe pusher, affectionately known as ‘George’.
This first-of-its-kind equipment in the UK represents a major step forward for trenchless technology. Designed to enable slip-lining sections up to 2 kilometres at a time, George delivers significant efficiency and sustainability gains across multiple dimensions:
Greater on-site efficiency, enabling faster progress with reduced downtime
Enhanced safety, lowering manual handling and operational risks
Lower carbon emissions, through reduced plant use and optimised workflows
Less disruption for communities, thanks to fewer excavations and a smaller site footprint
The success of this innovation reflects the strength of collaboration between OCU, our Clients, and our supply chain partners.
Together, we’re demonstrating how new technology can transform infrastructure delivery — making it safer, smarter, and more sustainable.
Congratulations to everyone involved in achieving this fantastic recognition and for continuing to set new standards in engineering excellence.
