We’re delighted that Stockport Interchange has been recognised at the 2026 susdrain Awards, winning the Regeneration & Retrofit: Public Buildings category before going on to be named the Overall Winner of the evening.

The award recognises an ambitious project that has transformed a key gateway into Stockport town centre, from a drab grey bus interchange into a living and breathing park above a transport interchange, demonstrating how sustainable drainage can sit at the heart of major urban regeneration.

At the heart of the scheme is EPG’s blue roof design, which helps transform the roof park from public realm into working climate-resilient infrastructure. Working alongside United Utilities and the wider design team, EPG helped ensure the roof park does far more than provide public space. It stores and slows rainfall, supports passive irrigation, reduces peak runoff and helps create a greener, cooler and more resilient town-centre environment.

Through the project, EPG delivered the SuDS design from RIBA concept stage through to detailed design, helping integrate water management into the wider vision for the development.  A key element of the project was incorporating a Grade II* listed viaduct into the new park. Alwyn Hughes, Structural Waterproofing Manager, and his team played a fundamental role in integrating the existing viaduct into the structural waterproofing design, which was a significant technical challenge and an important part of the project’s success.

For us, that’s what makes this recognition particularly rewarding.

Stockport Interchange isn’t simply an award-winning drainage scheme. It’s a project that demonstrates what can happen when sustainable drainage is treated as an opportunity to create better places and enhance our natural environment.

Phil Williams, Managing Director of EPG, said, “I’ve been lucky enough to work on Olympic arenas, elite sports venues and huge giga-projects where the numbers are enormous. But this park in Greater Manchester might be my favourite. We talk a lot in the UK about the difficulty of delivering major infrastructure. Here is one that has been delivered. And it is now giving something back to the community, including an estimated £16m of natural capital value. Some projects are impressive because they are big. Some are impressive because they are complicated. This one is special because it is useful, generous and visible.”

Putting SuDS at the centre of regeneration

Urban regeneration projects are rarely straightforward. Constrained sites, existing infrastructure, competing stakeholder priorities and increasing climate pressures all create challenges that require careful thought and collaboration.

Stockport Interchange was no exception.

The project sought to deliver a modern transport hub, new homes, public realm improvements and enhanced green space, all within a complex urban environment. The challenge was not simply to manage water, but to use water management as part of a wider vision for regeneration.

The completed scheme includes a 4,000m² publicly accessible roof park, designed to manage a 1-in-100-year storm event plus a 40% climate change allowance. The blue roof system provides 85mm of attenuation storage and achieves a greater than 95% reduction in peak runoff rates, demonstrating how sustainable drainage infrastructure can deliver measurable performance alongside wider community benefits.

Instead of relying solely on traditional underground infrastructure, the scheme embraces sustainable drainage principles, integrating blue-green infrastructure throughout the development. This approach helps slow, store and manage rainfall while creating an attractive and functional environment for the people who use it every day.

As towns and cities continue to adapt to the realities of climate change, projects such as Stockport Interchange provide an important blueprint for the future.

They show that sustainable drainage is not simply about managing water; it’s about creating places that are more resilient, more attractive and better equipped to support communities for generations to come.

To see Stockport Interchange recognised with both a category award and the Overall Winner title is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.

Congratulations to United Utilities and the entire project team on this well-deserved recognition.

We’re delighted that Stockport Interchange has been recognised at the 2026 susdrain Awards, winning the Regeneration & Retrofit: Public Buildings category before going on to be named the Overall Winner of the evening.

The award recognises an ambitious project that has transformed a key gateway into Stockport town centre, from a drab grey bus interchange into a living and breathing park above a transport interchange, demonstrating how sustainable drainage can sit at the heart of major urban regeneration.

At the heart of the scheme is EPG’s blue roof design, which helps transform the roof park from public realm into working climate-resilient infrastructure. Working alongside United Utilities and the wider design team, EPG helped ensure the roof park does far more than provide public space. It stores and slows rainfall, supports passive irrigation, reduces peak runoff and helps create a greener, cooler and more resilient town-centre environment.

Through the project, EPG delivered the SuDS design from RIBA concept stage through to detailed design, helping integrate water management into the wider vision for the development.  A key element of the project was incorporating a Grade II* listed viaduct into the new park. Alwyn Hughes, Structural Waterproofing Manager, and his team played a fundamental role in integrating the existing viaduct into the structural waterproofing design, which was a significant technical challenge and an important part of the project’s success.

For us, that’s what makes this recognition particularly rewarding.

Stockport Interchange isn’t simply an award-winning drainage scheme. It’s a project that demonstrates what can happen when sustainable drainage is treated as an opportunity to create better places and enhance our natural environment.

Phil Williams, Managing Director of EPG, said, “I’ve been lucky enough to work on Olympic arenas, elite sports venues and huge giga-projects where the numbers are enormous. But this park in Greater Manchester might be my favourite. We talk a lot in the UK about the difficulty of delivering major infrastructure. Here is one that has been delivered. And it is now giving something back to the community, including an estimated £16m of natural capital value. Some projects are impressive because they are big. Some are impressive because they are complicated. This one is special because it is useful, generous and visible.”

Vacancy: Senior Contracts Manager

This is not a standard contracts manager role.

We are looking for someone to accelerate the continued growth of EPG’s new integrated SuDS design and build business.

The right person will not just deliver projects. They will shape the business, influence how it grows, and become a key part of its future.  This isn’t a role with a fixed structure and a narrow remit, it’s an opportunity to build something that will make a positive, long-term difference to the UK’s sustainable water management infrastructure. Working with two established, industry-leading brands, with the support of an international Group of businesses on and area with proven market potential, this is a role for someone looking to make an immediate impact.

EPG is one of the UK’s leading specialist SuDS consultancies and co-author of the CIRIA SuDS Manual. Carrick delivers specialist sports and environmental construction projects across the UK. Together, we are creating a genuine design and build SuDS business focused on technically challenging projects that most contractors and consultants cannot deliver alone.

We are already delivering integrated projects with water companies, local authorities and major private sector clients, including rain gardens, SuDS retrofit schemes, schools’ programmes and complex urban drainage works. The market is growing quickly. AMP8 investment, Biodiversity Net Gain, tightening planning policy and increasing flood resilience requirements are creating major demand for specialist SuDS delivery capability.

The Role:

The Contracts Manager is the operational backbone of EPG’s D&B service. You will manage the full lifecycle of SuDS design and build projects from contract award through to handover and adoption, acting as the single point of accountability for programme, cost, quality and client relationship on every scheme you run.

You will work at the intersection of EPG’s design team and Carrick’s construction workforce, translating design intent into site delivery. You will represent the business to water company asset managers, local authority officers, school business managers and tier-1 contractor programme teams. You will be the face of the business on-site and in client meetings and will be fully supported by our technical and professional support teams.

Responsibilities:

• Manage multiple concurrent SuDS D&B projects from contract award to handover, typically 3–8 live projects at any time in the £60k–£2m range
• Act as Principal Contractor representative under CDM 2015 on delivered schemes Construction Phase Plans, site welfare, H&S compliance
• Manage client relationships from post-award to completion: water company asset managers, LLFA officers, DfE schools programme leads, tier-1 contractor contacts
• Coordinate between EPG’s design team and Carrick’s site workforce, ensuring design intent is understood and delivered, not just followed on paper
• Procure and manage specialist subcontractors where Carrick’s own workforce is at capacity or a specialist trade is required
• Manage NEC contract administration: early warnings, compensation events, payment applications, programme updates
• Attend and chair site meetings, progress reviews and client milestone meetings
• Support EPG’s ambitious business development plans: attend client introductions, contribute to tender submissions, build relationships in the water company and LLFA market
• Oversee project financials: cost plans, valuations, margin reporting, final accounts
• During Carrick’s peak sports construction periods, provide project management resource to Carrick’s sports build programme, contributing to the group’s year-round capacity

What We’re Looking For:

Essential

• NEC3 or NEC4 contract experience, specifically ECC (Engineering and Construction Contract) Options A, B or C; and/or JCT Design and Build or Minor Works contract experience.
• Proven track record managing construction projects from award to final account, with full financial ownership
• Experience managing subcontractors and supply chain on civil or environmental construction schemes
• CDM 2015 competency: experience as Principal Contractor or supporting PC on notifiable projects
• SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) or equivalent
• Full UK driving licence and genuine willingness to travel nationally
• The commercial and interpersonal confidence to manage client relationships independently with water companies, local authorities or equivalent institutional clients
• Working alongside Carrick to deliver premium and elite sports facilities (including but not limited to football, golf, cricket, rugby), during peak sports construction periods.
• Minimum 5 years’ construction project management experience in civil engineering, environmental construction, drainage, water/utilities or related sector

Preferred

• Experience in SuDS, sustainable drainage, rain gardens, bioretention systems or surface water management
• Water company supply chain experience: working within or alongside UU, Anglian, Severn Trent, Yorkshire Water or equivalent
• Experience on LLFA or local authority-funded drainage or flood risk schemes and familiarity with LLFA drainage adoption processes and Section 38/278 agreements
• NRSWA supervisor qualification or experience managing NRSWA-notifiable highway works

SuDS knowledge is preferred but not a barrier.

About us

EPG
The Environmental Protection Group is a leading geoenvironmental engineering consultancy specialising in sustainable water management, contaminated land remediation and gas protection, environmental monitoring and structural waterproofing.

With a team of multi-disciplinary experts, EPG provides clients with innovative solutions and a comprehensive design service. Combining regulatory compliance with complementary ideas and technologies, our priority is to deliver robust, leading edge, cost-effective design solutions.

Carrick
Carrick Construction is a leading provider of construction services to the sports and environmental sectors. Bringing together like-minded professionals with skills in construction, project management and engineering, we’re committed to delivering high quality projects, safely and efficiently.

Job Type: Full-time and permanent
Pay:  competitive salary plus car and group benefits
Work Location: Preferred base: Northwest (Daresbury, Warrington or Bingley, West Yorkshire: EPG offices) or Southwest (Pershore, Worcestershire: Carrick base). Remote working is available for the right candidate.

To apply, please send your CV to recruitment@epg-ltd.co.uk

The Environmental Protection Group strengthens Board to enhance delivery for clients and support next phase of growth

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) has announced the expansion of its Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in the consultancy’s continued growth and long-term development, further strengthening its ability to support clients with complex development challenges across the UK.

Founded by Paul Culleton and Diane Leigh and shortly after joined by Steve Wilson, EPG was established at a time when sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and vapour and ground gas mitigation were not widely recognised within UK development. From the outset, the founders challenged conventional practice, helping to shape industry understanding and setting a strong technical foundation that continues to underpin the business today.

Since becoming part of STRI Group, EPG has experienced sustained growth, expanding from a team of ten to nearly 40, following the recent acquisition of Hafren Water. This has added further depth to its expertise and ability to provide agile responses to client needs.

To support the next phase, EPG has appointed three new Directors to its Board:

Phil Williams, Managing Director
Amy Juden, Director
Leo Phillips, Director

Phil Williams commented, “As EPG moves forward, the strengthened Board provides a robust platform to support continued growth, technical excellence and long-term value for clients across geoenvironmental engineering, structural waterproofing and sustainable water management.  We have a great team surrounding us and we’re looking forward to what the future holds.”

These appointments recognise the leadership, technical capability and long-standing commitment Phil, Amy and Leo have demonstrated in helping to build and shape the business, ensuring clients continue to benefit from technical leadership, responsive service and ongoing innovation. 

The Environmental Protection Group strengthens Board to enhance delivery for clients and support next phase of growth

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) has announced the expansion of its Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in the consultancy’s continued growth and long-term development, further strengthening its ability to support clients with complex development challenges across the UK.

Founded by Paul Culleton and Diane Leigh and shortly after joined by Steve Wilson, EPG was established at a time when sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and vapour and ground gas mitigation were not widely recognised within UK development. From the outset, the founders challenged conventional practice, helping to shape industry understanding and setting a strong technical foundation that continues to underpin the business today.

Since becoming part of STRI Group, EPG has experienced sustained growth, expanding from a team of ten to nearly 40, following the recent acquisition of Hafren Water. This has added further depth to its expertise and ability to provide agile responses to client needs.

To support the next phase, EPG has appointed three new Directors to its Board:

Phil Williams, Managing Director
Amy Juden, Director
Leo Phillips, Director

Phil Williams commented, “As EPG moves forward, the strengthened Board provides a robust platform to support continued growth, technical excellence and long-term value for clients across geoenvironmental engineering, structural waterproofing and sustainable water management.  We have a great team surrounding us and we’re looking forward to what the future holds.”

These appointments recognise the leadership, technical capability and long-standing commitment Phil, Amy and Leo have demonstrated in helping to build and shape the business, ensuring clients continue to benefit from technical leadership, responsive service and ongoing innovation. 

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.

SuDS rain garden and planter which were installed at Estcourt School, designed by EPG and installed by Group company, Carrick Construction

How EPG can support your application:

• Assistance in Securing Match Funding: Securing the required 50% match funding may be a challenge for some applicants. However, third-party contributors, such as local water companies, are eligible sources. EPG can support your case by modelling sewer networks alongside surface water flooding scenarios to demonstrate the potential reduction in flows to the public sewer system. This can help justify a financial contribution from the water company.
• Flood Evidence and Performance Standards: The application requires primary or secondary evidence of surface water flooding (e.g., photos or media reports). EPG can strengthen your application by interpreting Environment Agency flood risk maps and undertaking hydraulic modelling to substantiate your evidence. We can also determine and validate the required level of protection the proposed SuDS features will deliver through performance calculations.
• Demonstrating Project Readiness: Applicants should show that their project is significantly progressed and ready for delivery. EPG can prepare necessary technical reports, calculations, and drawings to support this. We can also assist with surveys, data modelling, final design work, and tender preparation, although these additional services may incur costs that are not covered by the funding.

Key Deadlines:

• Applications must be submitted by 09:00 AM on Monday, 20 October 2025.
• The window for submitting questions or seeking clarification closes at 5:00 PM on Friday, 8 August 2025. We strongly recommend beginning the application process as soon as possible to allow ample time for queries and technical preparations.

Together, we can deliver SuDS that not only meet technical standards but also bring lasting flood alleviation and environmental benefits to your area.

The gov.uk website details all requirements on eligibility and suitability Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in Schools 2026/27 – GOV-UK Find a grant. Once reviewed, EPG would be delighted to talk to you about supporting your application. Please email enquiries@epg-ltd.co.uk or call 01274 565131.

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.

The Environmental Protection Group (EPG) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hafren Water, a respected environmental consultancy specialising in hydrology and hydrogeology services.

This acquisition marks another exciting milestone in EPG’s continued growth, with Hafren Water’s hydrogeology expertise complementing EPG’s existing services and strengths with the ability to deliver integrated water and geoenvironmental management solutions across the UK and beyond.

Hafren Water brings a highly skilled team of specialists with extensive experience in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resource management, and flood risk assessment. Their technical excellence will further enhance EPG’s elite capabilities, enabling the development of groundwater and piling works risk assessments in addition to risk assessments for infiltration systems on high-risk sites, providing guidance from inception to completion of a project.

The acquisition introduces new clients and sector opportunities for EPG, especially within the quarrying industry, where Hafren Water has built a strong reputation.

Hafren Water will continue to operate under its well-respected brand, maintaining its base in Shrewsbury, and will work closely with EPG to share knowledge, expertise, and to continue delivering excellence for clients. The two businesses are committed to long-term collaboration, stability, and sustainable business development for both brands.

“We’re delighted to welcome Hafren Water into the EPG family,” said Phil Williams, Director of EPG. “Their hydrology and hydrogeology expertise will significantly strengthen our services and help us deliver even greater value to our clients. This acquisition is about long-term growth and building strong foundations for the future.”

“Joining EPG allows us to build on our existing strengths while collaborating to expand our capabilities and reach,” added Chris Leake, Director of Hafren Water. “We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our people, and the wider industry.”

EPG looks forward to a successful partnership with Hafren Water, expanding its ability to deliver innovative, sustainable, and technically robust environmental solutions.