The Mining Remediation Authority has awarded a £203 million operation and maintenance (O&M) contract to Alpheus Environmental Limited to support the ongoing protection of Great Britain’s watercourses and drinking water supplies affected by historic mining.
Awarded following a comprehensive tendering process, the initial eight-year contract covers the operation, maintenance and enhancement of the Authority’s network of mine water assets. Alpheus will provide 24-hour operational support across 82 mine water treatment schemes, 10 subsidence pumping stations and more than 700 data monitoring points.
During 2024–2025, the Mining Remediation Authority maintained and operated 82 mine water treatment schemes with the capacity to treat up to 232 billion litres of mine water
The scale of the Mining Remediation Authority’s mine water programme is significant. During 2024–2025, its treatment schemes were maintained and operated with the capacity to treat up to 232 billion litres of mine water. This activity prevents pollution of rivers, coastal waters and drinking water sources and stops an estimated 3,682 tonnes of iron from entering Great Britain’s waterways each year.
Deerplay mine water treatment scheme in Lancashire, England. Credit: Mining Remediation Authority
The contract includes responsibility for the collection and management of environmental data from monitoring points located across mining-affected areas, supporting the Authority’s ability to track water quality and asset performance.
The new contract follows 11 years of operation and maintenance services delivered by Severn Trent Services. A six-month transition period has been established to ensure continuity of service and a smooth handover between contractors.
Alpheus Environmental Limited, part of the Anglian Water Group, is a UK provider of water treatment and environmental services. The company draws on more than 30 years of experience to support clients in meeting regulatory and operational challenges, advancing sustainable water management and protecting the environment.
The long-term partnership between the Mining Remediation Authority and Alpheus formally began on 1 January 2026 and will play a key role in safeguarding water resources and the environment in mining areas across Great Britain.
