The deal will focus on driving efficiencies and value engineering on non-infrastructure projects, including Combined Sewer Overflows, storm overflow schemes and treatment works.

Both firms are already collaborating on Severn Trent’s Design and Build Lot 1, where Aqua is delivering feasibility and detailed design for MCERTS flow monitoring at nine sites.

Avove, which recently secured two major AMP8 frameworks, is also an Enterprise Design and Construct partner for United Utilities.

Aqua, part of the Adler and Allan Group, provides full end-to-end design, process and advisory services, while Avove continues to expand its role as a leading delivery partner across UK water programmes.

Aqua managing director Ben Shearer said the partnership was a “real statement of intent” as the sector heads into AMP8.

Avove business development director James Lawlor said: “As a business, we are committed to supporting clients through the provision of innovative and sustainable solutions, ensuring key objectives are met and new opportunities are progressed.

“The partnership with Aqua Consultants is a testament to that commitment, as their design consultants and project management teams are both highly experienced and collaborative –key factors that made the partnership even more important.

“It provides a great opportunity for us to drive value into the suite of non-infrastructure water projects, and we look forward to working closely with the Aqua team to drive our services forward.”