AECOM and the University of Salford launch new research partnership

International infrastructure consultancy firm AECOM and the University of Salford have launched a new research partnership aimed at improving understanding of how major infrastructure programmes interact with the natural environment. 

Given the UK’s ambitious infrastructure pipeline, developing industry’s knowledge of the issue is set to be increasingly important for future programmes. The two organisations will jointly fund environmental research on topics directly applicable to major infrastructure projects. Research areas will be chosen to provide benefits to particular schemes and to help reduce adverse impacts and improve outcomes for the natural environment on future projects. 

The partnership has evolved from the environmental consultancy work AECOM is delivering for the Mersey Gateway Project, a major new transport scheme and one of the largest infrastructure projects in the UK. The company is providing specialist environmental advice and monitoring to help manage the impact of the new route on the environment. 

The work is part of AECOM’s design joint venture with UK consultant Flint & Neill to deliver detailed design consultancy services to the Merseylink consortium, which was awarded a contract to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the scheme for Halton Borough Council. 

The project includes a new six-lane toll bridge over the River Mersey and part of AECOM’s work has focused on the complex and sensitive estuarine environment. Realising that new research about the impact of infrastructure schemes on such habitats would be beneficial to the project and to industry, AECOM and the University of Salford have formed their partnership to explore opportunities for appropriate research. 

Under the new partnership, AECOM and the University of Salford will co-fund research that could lead to PhD studies and scientific papers. Research areas may include exploring potential issues for wildlife when working in areas with contaminated sediments; predicting disturbance to sensitive species from construction activities; and investigating perceptions of biodiversity within construction. 

Peter Skinner, chief executive of environment and ground engineering for Europe, Middle East, India and Africa at AECOM, said: “Shaping research so that it is applicable to specific projects provides students with opportunities to make a tangible difference to both academia and industry through their learning. 

“Greater collaboration between universities and the private sector will make an important contribution to mitigating the impact of infrastructure on the environment and protecting the natural world. AECOM is proud to be working with the University of Salford on this initiative to increase understanding of the environmental and ecological aspects of infrastructure projects,” Skinner said.

Professor Nigel Mellors, pro vice chancellor for research and enterprise at the University of Salford, said: “This partnership will provide a unique opportunity for both parties. It fits into our aim of focusing our research at real life challenges and to deliver real life impact for society. It will also give our students the chance to get involved in a live project and help them develop key skills for industry.”

The partnership was signed by AECOM’s Peter Skinner and Professor Nigel Mellors at a special ceremony at the University of Salford, which was attended by representatives from both organisations.