Wessex Water Services Ltd is engaging potential investors and contractors (as a Competitively Appointed Provider) to design, build, finance, operate and maintain a new 30 Ml/d Water Recycling Centre together with transfer pipelines and wetlands at Corfe Mullen near Poole in Dorset.

As part of broader initiatives by the West Country Water and Environment Group (WCWE), two major projects are currently in early planning and development: the Poole Water Recycling and Transfer Project and the Cheddar 2 Reservoir and Transfer scheme. Wessex Water intends to appoint a Competitively Appointed Provider (CAP) to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain a new Poole Water Recycling Centre under the Direct Procurement for Customers (DPC) model. The current project scope includes a new 30 million litres per day (Ml/d) Water Recycling Centre at Corfe Mullen, along with supporting infrastructure such as pipelines transferring flows from the existing Poole facility, new wetlands, and discharge pipelines. The estimated capital cost of the works is approximately £287 million.

The market engagement programme aims to build a deeper understanding of the project’s delivery from both construction and investment viewpoints. It also provides Wessex Water with a valuable opportunity to collaborate closely with the market to refine the delivery and commercial model, procurement strategy, and contract terms. Furthermore, the engagement seeks to foster multi-party discussions that will help align the project’s development and market presentation with current industry trends, while incorporating the perspectives of both investors and main works contractors who are expected to form the CAP. 

The estimated total value of the project is £345 million excluding VAT (£414 million including VAT). Wessex Water is now inviting interested parties to participate in the ongoing market engagement programme for the Poole Water Recycling and Transfer Project. The tender notice is currently scheduled for publication on 30 July 2027.