Belfast company wins water network contract

A Belfast company today snapped up a £50m (€55.9m) contract from Northern Ireland Water to repair and maintain the water and sewerage networks.

The centralised deal with Meridian Utilities replaced a series of separate contracts with a range of companies which NI Water said would deliver a £9m (€10m) saving in operating expenditure over the four-year term of the deal.

Based in Gilnahirk, but with offices in Dungiven and Omagh, Meridian will support the water company by providing a range of water and sewerage services - including sewer and watermain repairs and maintenance, clearing sewer blockages, repairing leaking water pipes and minor water and sewerage infrastructure improvements.

The new contract replaces 10 which had been handled by 31 suppliers.

NI Water’s chairman and chief executive Chris Mellor said: “NI Water is engaged in a major change process that will transform the service our customers receive.

“By awarding the water and sewerage networks service contract to one company, it will allow us to increase our focus on cost efficiency and value for money.”

He said he was confident customers would experience an improved service.

Mr Mellor added: “We are particularly pleased that it was a local Northern Ireland company which provided the best offer and won this substantial contract.”

Kenny Mills, director of Meridian Utilities who have around 200 direct employees, said they were extremely pleased to have won the contract.

He added: “I strongly believe that Meridian will provide a major contribution to NI Water’s development and service to customers.

“NI Water has made a significant investment in a local company that will benefit the economy, environment and the whole community.”