Northumbrian Water has named Esh Construction as its sole delivery partner for its Wastewater Networks Framework, a planned and reactive repairs and maintenance contract across the region’s wastewater network.

The framework appointment underpins a long-standing collaborative partnership between Esh and Northumbrian Water spanning more than 25 years.

The eight-year framework agreement is worth up to £20m per annum and will see Esh deliver essential maintenance and rehabilitation works on a 24/7, 365 days a year service across the sewage network, ensuring an excellent customer journey throughout.

David Pratt, divisional director at Esh Construction, said: “This framework is where it all started for Esh and Northumbrian Water – it is the bedrock of our relationship. It’s where our journey began more than two decades ago, and we’re immensely proud to have been chosen as the sole provider this time around.

“We are proud as a local contractor to employ local people and to procure using a local supply chain. The contract award is a real testament to the hard work, performance and expertise of our teams and our collaboration with Northumbrian Water.”

The contract will include a range of trenchless and traditional sewer repairs, including manhole replacement, pipework rehabilitation and reactive emergency responses, with the most common service being the clearance of sewer blockages.

These works will be delivered in collaboration with Jet Aire – Esh’s primary delivery partner – with around 200 personnel expected to support the framework between the two organisations.

Operating from offices in County Durham and Cramlington, Esh will provide a regional delivery model, bolstered by a local supply chain and workforce.

Building on Esh’s appointment last year to Northumbrian Water’s Ecosystem Framework and joint-venture Esh-Stantec’s appointment to the 12-year Living Water Enterprise Framework, this contract ensures continued job security and progression opportunities for operatives, apprentices and graduates across Esh Construction.