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Five Rivers Environmental – case study

Five Rivers Environmental Contracting Ltd. is a Wiltshire based SME that’s been actively involved with HS2 since 2017. They have been working with LMJV and Fusion, two of HS2’s Enabling Works Tier 1 Joint Ventures and are providing important environmental and ecological mitigation work on the Northern and Central sections of Phase One of the HS2 route.

Five Rivers initially engaged with HS2 Ltd in 2016 and have attended HS2 supply chain engagement events including HS2’s Meet the Contractor event.

After attending the HS2 Meet the Contractor event, Five Rivers registered on CompeteFor – HS2’s portal for advertising supply chain opportunities. As a result of this, they were made aware of various business opportunities and subsequently won over £4 million of work developing new aquatic areas, natural grasslands and trans-locating habitats along the line of route. In addition, they are also supporting wildlife affected by the works and have cared for reptiles, insects, bats and badgers – demonstrating Five Rivers and HS2’s commitment to the environment and wildlife preservation.

Working to develop new habitats

Five Rivers has employed three new staff to work specifically on HS2 and have found multiple opportunities to up-skill existing employees. In addition, they currently have one apprentice working on HS2 and are looking to bring on more as required. The setting up of an office in the Midlands is also part of their planned expansion programme.

Over the course of working on the HS2 programme, Five Rivers has sub-contracted £1.5 million worth of contracts to a variety of businesses in its supply chain. Their supply chain has not only expanded locally but also more broadly across the country to support their work, for example in preserving ancient woodlands and ensuring that soil is transported correctly. As an example, Five Rivers are working with Midland Ecology who are providing ecological support and Hubbard & Sons who have provided several kilometres of fencing.

Five Rivers’ current HS2 works are being delivered predominantly through the use of local suppliers and contractors with an anticipated initial workforce of 25, increasing as HS2 works ramp up.

Looking to the future, Five Rivers intend to develop a long-term HS2 division within their business.

Five Rivers are up-skilling existing staff and are employing more people to work on HS2

The knowledge and experience gained on HS2 so far has enabled us to add value across all aspects of our company.

As a specialist SME our supply chain extends to a vast array of local and national suppliers and our increased understanding of what works has brought an enhanced experience for all those working on the project.

Jason Lovering, Director, Five Rivers Environmental Contracting Ltd

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