Elite Precast Concrete has played an important role in the successful upgrade of Dronfield Wastewater Treatment Works in Derbyshire.

The scheme supports Yorkshire Water’s work to improve water quality in the River Drone through the use of innovative precast solutions. It forms part of a wider £10 million capital investment programme and was delivered by main contractor Tilbury Douglas, with the civils works carried out by CPC Civils.

A key feature of the project was the use of Elite Precast Concrete’s Retainer-Rock® walling system. This modular, engineered block system provides robust earth retention with a natural stone finish. It was chosen for its quick, dry-laid installation, reduced on-site labour requirements, long service life and its ability to meet aesthetic expectations within the river corridor.

Retainer-Rock® not only delivers structural performance, but also reduces environmental impact and installation time compared with traditional in-situ concrete walls,” said Paul Cartwright, Business Development Director at Elite Precast. The precast units supported a more efficient installation programme, helping CPC Civils meet tight handover deadlines and regulatory commissioning requirements.

The upgrade is intended to reduce phosphorus levels in treated effluent, supporting environmental compliance and improving the long-term performance of the wastewater facility. As part of the civils package, CPC Civils completed extensive enabling works, pipe connections and drainage, and installed new services, including a backwash pump station.

The project was completed and commissioned in December 2024, in line with Yorkshire Water’s improvement objectives. The successful collaboration between Elite Precast Concrete, CPC Civils and Tilbury Douglas has also secured follow-on work into the AMP8 investment period.

For further information on the Retainer-Rock® retaining wall solution, please visit www.eliteprecast.co.uk/concrete-walling-products/retainer-rock/.