MARCH awarded place on £50m United Utilities Monitoring and Control Systems Integration framework

Engineering specialist MARCH has secured a place on the United Utilities Monitoring and Control Systems Integration framework, supporting the delivery of critical operational technology across the North West’s water infrastructure. The framework will run for an initial period of five years, with the possibility of extension to ten, and is valued at approximately £5 million annually.

Covering the design, development, testing, commissioning and optimisation of operational technology software on both new and existing assets, the agreement focuses on delivering safe, secure and standardised solutions. These are aligned with United Utilities’ technical governance and engineering standards and support the company’s wider goals to enhance network performance and resilience.

This latest appointment builds on MARCH’s existing relationship with United Utilities. In 2023, the company was awarded a place on the Design and Build framework, covering both AMP7 and AMP8.

Michael Thomas, executive director at MARCH, commented: “We’re pleased to continue our partnership with United Utilities. Our appointment to both frameworks enables us to deliver integrated solutions with greater efficiency. We understand these complex projects and are committed to providing secure, reliable systems that enhance operational performance while supporting environmental targets.”

United Utilities manages the regulated water and wastewater network across North West England, serving over 7 million people. AMP8 will see significant investment in digital and physical infrastructure. United Utilities is delivering a £975 million programme to improve water quality for 1.4 million customers and safeguard water supplies for over 2 million customers.

The company is investing in digital systems and sustainable technology to meet environmental objectives, including the Advanced WINEP rainwater management scheme.