JN Bentley have supported Herefordshire Council with the construction of three new integrated wetlands in Luston, a nature-based solution which is lowering the levels of phosphate in the Rivers Wye, Lugg, and Usk to improve the water quality and boost local biodiversity and wildlife, safeguarding the natural environment. Construction began in 2022 and involved multiple stages. Initial site surveying and modelling was carried out and a temporary works surface installed to allow digging of the individual cells. Clay excavated on site was used to line the wetland cells, creating an impermeable layer to reduce infiltration and risk of groundwater contamination. The wetland cells were then planted using a variety of 14 different natural plant species, and the pipeline made operational to test the water treatment process. Finally, the surrounding site was landscaped with the planting of native trees and wild meadow species to support biodiversity. In the year since the Luston Wetlands project began, the phosphate levels have dramatically reduced – and in some cases removed altogether – and will continue to remove around 300kg of phosphate from the water system every year, a process nicknamed 'the earth kidneys'. The scheme will also provide a biodiversity boost of 183%, thanks to the planting of 85,000 species that will further aid nutrient removal. Every week, water samples are taken to track the phosphate levels at the start and end of the cells to ensure the process is working and making a difference to the rivers and wildlife. In 2019, Natural England advised Herefordshire Council that the high levels of phosphate in the River Lugg meant that any new housing development must fully offset its phosphate load; thus, the Luston Wetlands project was developed and the works have permitted the development of 600 new homes. The integrated wetlands were officially commissioned in July this year, where key project stakeholders, including JN Bentley, were invited to celebrate the official opening of the scheme. The launch event included a welcome from Paul Walker (Chief Executive) and Councillor Swinglehurst (Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment) alongside a guided tour through the town of Luston to the Wetlands. This was followed by afternoon tea and a keynote speech from a very special guest, Kevin McCloud (MBE) -  known for the internationally acclaimed Channel 4’s Grand Designs and renowned for his ambition to enhance the built environment. Read more about the scheme on the Herefordshire Council website . One year on since the site became operational, key project stakeholders came together to celebrate the official opening of the innovative scheme. The completed wetlands at Luston, Herefordshire.

Engineering design and construction company Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) has been awarded its first ever long-term framework agreement with Wessex Water. Following a competitive tendering process, MMB has been named a capital delivery partner on two multi-million-pound ‘lots’ that will see the company deliver projects across the region through to 2030 - with the potential for a five-year extension into AMP9 thereafter. The framework enables MMB to use its extensive design and construction experience to deliver a scope of work including the construction of new assets and refurbishment, modifications, and maintenance of above and below ground infrastructure. Wessex Water serves 2.9 million customers with water and sewerage services across the south west of England. Set for record investment in AMP8 – more than double that of AMP7 – MMB will bring its strong track record of innovation and direct-delivery to drive a programme of work to improve water and wastewater treatment, water and wastewater networks, storm overflows, flooding resilience, and bioresources. Director for MMB, Jonny Burton, said, "We are delighted to sign our first AMP framework with Wessex Water. "The framework gives us the opportunity to champion the values we share with Wessex Water - collaboration, digital innovation, excellent health and safety practices, and environmental and social responsibility – as we tackle an important programme of works over the next five years. "This new partnership will allow us to continue our significant investment in the region that is already generating employment opportunities on nearby frameworks with South West Water and Thames Water. We are excited to get going." In securing these new contracts with Wessex Water, MMB now holds framework agreements with nine of the UK’s largest water and sewerage companies. For details of all opportunities to join MMB’s growing team across the UK – in design, construction and on site - please visit the MMB careers website .

Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) celebrates its 25th anniversary on 17th August 2024. Formed in 1999, MMB is a truly integrated design and build organisation combining the global consulting expertise of Mott MacDonald with the contracting experience of JN Bentley. A history of growth Founded in August 1999 , MMB secured its first AMP3 design-and-build framework with Yorkshire Water. By the end of 2000 over £800,000 of work had been delivered and a year later the business had secured its first £1 million pound project. Now, 25 years on, over £800,000 of work is delivered every day, with multi-million-pound water sector projects across the country. In 2005 , MMB  moved into its first co-located offices with Yorkshire Water, in Bradford, ready for AMP4. In recent years the company has successfully co-located with clients all over the country, from Newport to Durham to Peterborough – now with eight offices nationwide.   The 2010s  saw MMB secure its second water sector client – Severn Trent – and establish co-located offices in Shifnal, after being named a core contractor on the water company’s AMP5 non-infrastructure works. The relationship with Mott MacDonald strengthened further in 2014  when MMB joined the Mott MacDonald Group; a move that has only served to enhance MMB in the years since. To date, over £2bn of work has been delivered together. 2015  introduced new clients including United Utilities, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, Anglian Water, and Northumbrian Water to MMB’s growing list. Strong performances saw framework extensions with Severn Trent and Yorkshire Water. This period also signified a period of significant growth, seeing MMB double in size to become a £300 million+ business. Despite the challenges of Covid-19 in 2020 , MMB added a seventh water company to its client base – Thames Water – the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, and in 2023 the business secured a framework extension into AMP8. MMB also joined a second alliance with Anglian Water – the Strategic Pipeline Alliance (SPA) – set-up to deliver one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects. SPA is engineering a new network of clean water pipelines and associated assets across the East of England. In 2024, MMB added its eighth water client to the list, after successfully securing a new AMP8 framework with South West Water, seeing the company further expand its national coverage in the South. Learn more about the projects MMB deliver in the water sector in their latest Annual Review and on UK Water Projects online . Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) in 2024 Today, MMB delivers work for eight of the UK’s largest water companies. Whilst the water industry faces some big challenges as it heads into AMP8, MMB is uniquely placed to deliver, with a workforce of over 2,200 directly employed staff and construction operatives, supported by a trusted supply chain, dedicated to building and maintaining the country’s critical water sector infrastructure.   Mott MacDonald Executive Chair, James Harris who spent a large portion of his career working at MMB commented on the company’s 25th anniversary: “I'm absolutely thrilled to see MMB get to this milestone of, of 25 years, it's been an absolutely fantastic journey. I think MMB can be immensely proud of what it's done, what it's delivered and the impact it's had on the communities we all serve. The business continues to go from strength to strength. Here’s to the next 25 years.” - Interested in building your career at MMB? Visit our careers site  to view all our current opportunities. Find and follow us on socials to keep up to date with the latest news from across the business too. LinkedIn , Twitter .

The first cohort of apprentices and graduates have successfully completed Mott MacDonald Bentley's (MMB’s) early careers development programme (ECDP). Over 100 colleagues came together for the last module of the programme (team building) and to attend a celebration event to mark the end of their journey on the development programme.   Pictured : One group of apprentices and graduates who successfully completed the ECDP The event, hosted at Aston University in Birmingham, saw delegates take part in head-to-head team challenges, putting theory learnt in the classroom into practice. Rounding off the event was an awards evening, which recognised the outstanding achievements of MMB’s apprentices and graduates and the contribution that the mentors make to support the business’ early careers programme. Congratulations to the award winners: The 'Going Above and Beyond' Award: Winner : William Ryden Highly Commended: Mohammed Sala Uddin 'Rising Star' Award: Winner : Ethan Bulcock Highly Commended : Evan Price 'Apprentice of the Year' Award: Winner : Leah Wild Highly Commended : Joshua Walker 'Graduate of the Year' Award: Winner : Rob Loveridge Highly Commended : Charlie Grant 'Early Careers Champion' Award: Joint Winners: Leah Southan and Jonny Winkley Helen Bradford, Learning and Development Lead said:  “What a great way to celebrate our first cohort completing the Early Careers Development Programme. It was wonderful to see everyone come back together for a brilliant two days. These events are only as good as the delegates that attend, and I can’t fault the level of enthusiasm and passion that everyone showed throughout. “Seeing and hearing how every person has developed over the programme is testament to everyone’s hard work and commitment, including that of our training partner, FutureProof . Congratulations to all!” Pictured: Award winners About the programme Launched last year, the structured programme provides a framework to help develop our apprentices and graduates and build strengths to start to prepare them for their future with the business.   The programme enables colleagues to develop key personal and professional skills that supports their progression and provides support towards professional qualifications  for their chosen discipline. Learn more about early careers and current opportunities on our careers site . - Follow MMB on LinkedIn  and X (formerly Twitter)  to keep up to date with the latest news.

JN Bentley’s MEP Development Scheme was established in 2015 and exists to support the career development of JN Bentley’s MEP community, enabling them to gain the experience, training, and opportunities to become a competent ‘Professional Mechanical, Electrical or Process Engineer’. The company actively encourages new graduates to join the development scheme, as well as experienced Mechanical, Electrical and Process Engineers, who can enrol onto the full programme or take a ‘career appraisal’ route using a gap analysis to identify development needs. The scheme also promotes Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and reflective learning. It links closely to the development objectives of the relevant professional institutes, allowing colleagues to complete the programme whilst gaining a professional qualification at the same time. The Institution of Engineering Technology (IET) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) accredited the scheme following an assessment by the Professional Development Committees, highlighting a number of strengths, including: A high level of senior management support for the scheme. The Scheme Management Processes are comprehensive, well established, and effective. The scheme is properly resourced, structured, and documented with excellent scheme administration. Mentors are enthusiastic, engaged and well-versed in UKSPEC requirements, and the support network is evident. Developing Engineers are articulate, motivated, enthusiastic, and professional. The scheme is inclusive and open to experienced staff and graduates wanting to upskill and achieve Chartership.   Following the good news, Peter Brodie and Helen Bradford, MEP Development Scheme Administrators, commented, “Well done and thanks to all who took part in the accreditation assessment of our MEP Development Scheme. We are delighted that the Professional Development Committees accredited our scheme. We are very proud of all those who have achieved qualifications and those who are currently on their journey, alongside the fantastic support provided by the scheme mentors.”   Josh Sparks, Contracts Manager at JN Bentley (previously Electrical Commissioning Engineer), has progressed through the scheme and achieved Chartership:   “The MEP Development Scheme played a key role in meeting the competencies required by the IET for me to become a Chartered Member (CEng). The scheme has broadened my understanding of the projects which JN Bentley take on from a commercial, design and build perspective, and I’ve had the opportunity to play a key part in flagship projects across the business.” David Marsh, Director at JN Bentley, commended the achievement:   “Congratulations to all involved for such well-deserved recognition. The hard work of the scheme administrators, mentors and all MEP Engineers showcases the very best of our passion for learning and development at JN Bentley.   We strive to support our colleagues in their professional development and long-term growth to ensure we are developing talent to support the future of both the company and the industry. Our focus is on enhancing our people’s capabilities and potential through the provision of learning experiences, preparing them for future roles and to fulfil career aspirations – and our MEP Development Scheme is just one example of this.”    Find out more about careers at JN Bentley: Join the team at JN Bentley - Careers with JN Bentley ( mottmacbentley.co.uk )

Integrated design-and-build company Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) has scooped a prestigious award at the 2024 Ground Engineering Awards. MMB’s ‘Newthorpe and Heanor Milnhay Sewage Treatment Works AMP7 Upgrades’ project was named best ‘UK Project with a Geotechnical Value of £500k-£1M’ at a ceremony attended by almost 900 ground engineering professionals at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London. Collecting the trophy L-R: Category sponsor representative, Jamie Beech (Contract Manager), Paul Wilkinson (Site Agent), Harry Ollerton (Geotechnical Engineer), Mark Edmondson (Regional Geotechnical Practice Lead), Fiona Eady (Ground Engineering Lead, Severn Trent Water), Nia Kajastie (Editor, Ground Engineering Magazine). The awards recognise the industry’s top achievements and identified the MMB scheme as ‘stand out’ in terms of innovation, quality, sustainability, health and safety and value engineering. Delivered with Severn Trent, the infrastructure upgrades to the aging Heanor Milnhay Sewage Treatment Works (STW) in Nottingham involve repurposing the existing STW to create additional storm storage which will reduce storm spills to the nearby River Erewash. This will provide increased resilience to the local community to account for future population growth, by transferring flows to a new treatment works extension at Newthorpe STW. The project has faced several significant geotechnical challenges, including legacy coal mining risks, management of high groundwater, and construction on problematic alluvial soils. Close collaboration between MMB and Severn Trent Water initiated early discussions with The Coal Authority about mitigating the risks associated with the legacy mineworks, resulting in consent given to install pipework in a high risk area which was carried out successfully by MMB. From the earliest stages of the project, steps have been taken to significantly reduce embodied carbon using PAS2080 principles, as well as deliver commercial savings. The client delivery team proactively worked with MMB to identify opportunities to reduce carbon, such as lessening the thickness of flotation slabs (typically concrete-heavy) by 65% in order to manage the high groundwater risks. MMB has successfully delivered a ‘build better’ solution by re-servicing existing structures, utilising digital solutions to best develop ground models in order to design out risk and adopting site won materials for reuse to construct biodiverse wildlife habitats, avoiding unnecessary carbon-heavy and costly off-site disposal. Read a detailed case study on our project at Newthorpe and Heanor Milnhay in MMB’s latest annual review [pg. 22] . The judges were impressed by the team’s “successful challenges and deviations from the client’s standard practices and MMB’s back-to-basics pragmatic approach, delivering a sustainable value engineered solution.”   Mark Edmondson, Regional Geotechnical Practice Lead for MMB, commented, "Winning this award is a fantastic result: not only is it the first national award for the project and first GE award for MMB, but it reflects how our Geotechnical Practice (and other Practices) can deliver real value for our projects and clients.” MMB’s Practices are networks that bring together colleagues via common areas of interest, to learn and share knowledge and best practice ideas and drive our excellence agenda. The Geotechnics Practice comprises geotechnical engineers, engineering geologists and other specialist disciplines, all skilled in managing ground risks and creating opportunities. Collaborating with key project stakeholders, the Practice helps to enable efficient, innovative and sustainable solutions that support the management of common ground risks. Learn more about JN Bentley, MMB and JBA Bentley on our website . Follow us on socials: LinkedIn ,  X , Facebook

In June, all 2,200+ colleagues from JN Bentley, Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) and JBA Bentley gathered for the very first time for an all-company seminar hosted at the Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate.   Coming together as one team, the event focused on important topics including health, safety and wellbeing in the construction industry, collaborative working and innovation. With live safety demonstrations, exhibition stalls, theatre talks and special guest speakers – former UK rugby league player, Jamie Peacock (MBE)  and Justin Manley from Titanium Talks  – the event showcased all the great things happening across the business and was an opportunity to mark the 25th anniversary of MMB. JN Bentley, MMB and JBA Bentley colleagues are spread across 10 office locations and hundreds of operational construction sites across the country. Bringing the whole company together, in one place, reinforced the One Team ethos that has been integral to the long-term success of all three businesses. Commenting on the day, colleagues said: “It was an excellent event of gathering more than 2200 people. It opened the doors to think more deeply on health, safety and the environment.” Lalith, Senior mechanical engineer “It was a fantastic event. It was safety focused but made fun at the same time. It was a reminder that we work for a fantastic organisation that deeply cares about its people. I am already looking forward to the next one!” Izzy, Quantity surveyor “The seminar was a great success – I feel proud to work for MMB!” Lini, Electrical engineer Thank you to all those that supported the day, including our colleagues, suppliers and guests. - Learn more about JN Bentley, MMB and JBA Bentley on our website . Follow us on socials: LinkedIn ,  X , Facebook

Engineering and construction company Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) has been awarded a place on a second AMP8 framework with United Utilities. The new ‘detailed design and build’ framework will see MMB work closely with United Utilities to undertake projects to improve process treatment facilities across the North West of England. The total value of the work is around £2.75bn, with individual projects ranging in size from £500,000 to £10m, with the potential for schemes to be grouped to drive efficient delivery. Contract award follows MMB’s success in securing a place on a separate AMP8 major infrastructure design-and-construct partnership. The partnership will see the company undertake a variety of work to support investment including upgrades to wastewater treatment works and reductions in storm overflows. David Marsh, MMB operations director, said, "We are delighted to have secured this second AMP8 framework with United Utilities, extending our relationship through to at least 2030. "AMP8 is a hugely important period for the UK water sector, and we’re pleased to be collaborating with United Utilities to support them in delivering major investment for customers across the North West of England. "MMB brings great experience in the detailed design and build space. We have a large directly employed frontline workforce and pride ourselves on the safe and efficient delivery of affordable, sustainable solutions for clients across the UK water sector. "We’re excited for what AMP8 holds and look forward to supporting United Utilities to leave a lasting legacy." MMB’s portfolio of UK water sector clients stands at eight; together with United Utilities, MMB is delivering work with Anglian Water, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Northumbrian Water, Severn Trent, South West Water, Thames Water, and Yorkshire Water. There are exciting career opportunities across the organisation, including the North West of England. Please visit the MMB recruitment website or contact the recruitment team on 01756 691572 / recruitment@jnbentley.co.uk for details of all current vacancies.

Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) is supporting this year’s International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) campaign. Celebrated annually on the 23rd of June, the campaign is an opportunity to spotlight current and emerging talent within the industry whilst inspiring the next generation of girls to succeed in STEM careers. This year’s theme is #enhancedbyengineering profiling bright and innovative women in engineering and showcasing the impact they have to shape the future of infrastructure as we know it. From family members to teachers and even pop icon Britney Spears, inspiration has come in many forms for our female colleagues. To mark INWED, some of our female team members shared their stories, including what inspired them to pursue a career in engineering. Pictured (L-R): Lyndsey Bogey, Hayley Howl, Sophie Murray, Frances Stephens and Katie Swanick Katie's story Hayley's story Lyndsey's story Sophie's story Frances' story Join the team Engineering stands at the forefront of progress and offers impactful career opportunities for women in engineering. If you are a creative thinker or born problem solver, there are multiple career paths available for those at the beginning of their career or looking to transfer their skills into a new role. Find all our current opportunities and apply here. Follow MMB on LinkedIn and X to keep up to date with the latest news.

[Trigger warning: suicide] JN Bentley was delighted to welcome Anthony Hutton to site at Howdon Hub, in Tyne and Wear, where he gave a powerful presentation (and free haircuts!) to teams, all about men's mental health. After winning reality show Big Brother back in 2005, Anthony’s extreme taste of fame led him to turn to drink, drugs, and eventually contemplating suicide. Fast forward almost 20 years, Anthony is now a well-known barber based in the North East – a job that made him realise how valuable the one-on-one chats and friendships he had built with his clients were, leading to him setting up his project - 'Never Throw in the Towel – Keep on Living'. The initiative aims to support men's mental health and prevent suicide, by raising awareness and offering the opportunity to connect with others in a safe, open space and talk to each other. As the North East faces the UK’s highest rates of male suicide, the project targets the region to spotlight the issues that men encounter by not talking about their mental health. The construction industry also faces the same problem. Following his presentation, Anthony then set up his barber chair in our cabins and gave anyone who wanted one a free trim. Speaking afterwards, Anthony said, "The brilliant feedback I received after visiting Howdon gives me such satisfaction that this project and concept of speaking with the barber chair is a good initiative. "It was also great seeing the JN Bentley staff attend my free weekend mental health retreat too. The North East and construction are the worst region and occupation in the UK for suicide. This is a huge problem that needs to be tackled." JN Bentley operations manager, Andrew Shield, commented, "Anthony had a natural rapport with everyone on site and people really resonated with his personal journey and natural charisma. The feedback from the entire team was excellent and even the most sceptical of our team were positive about the message and the way it was delivered.” Sophie Naylor, wellbeing advisor at JN Bentley, added, "Given the startling statistics around mental health in the construction industry, supporting employee wellbeing is a key focus for us and we are delighted to see the positive impact the session with Anthony has had. "We know there isn't a single solution or approach that will work for everyone so our network of Wellbeing Champions are empowered to help shape and support our initiatives. The feedback and insights they provide mean we can encourage others to begin or continue the conversation." If you are based in the North East and struggling with your mental health, you can view local support services here.