Nature-Based Solutions Engineered to Work

Nature-based solutions (NbS) such as constructed wetlands and sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are increasingly recognised as having a major role to play in reducing water pollution. However, the right engineering expertise is required to successfully implement these solutions. That’s where we come in…

WE Help Water Companies

AMP 8 has a key focus on reducing pollution incidents and storm overflow impacts, with an emphasis on NbS. However, there are concerns about an apparent lack of resources in the supply chain to deliver this ambitious programme.

GR Water Engineering Ltd can work with you and your framework partners to provide specialist engineering resources for the following applications:

  • Reedbeds (horizontal / vertical flow, passive and aerated) for tertiary and storm overflow treatment
  • Constructed Wetlands (Free Water Surface) for secondary and tertiary treatment
  • Retrofit SuDS for offsetting of stormwater from combined sewers

We offer bespoke designs from the concept and feasibility stage all the way through to detailed design and construction. Our designs are compliant with recognised industry standards and best engineering practices.

WE Help Developers

Getting new developments through the planning process poses a number of challenges, with drainage and foul water disposal often being one of the more difficult problems to solve. Following the introduction of the new national standards for SuDS in July 2025, Lead Local Flood Authorities are asking for ‘Four Pillars’ SuDS designs that address the issues of water quality, amenity and biodiversity and not just water quantity. Traditional solutions involving ‘crates and craters’ are no longer acceptable, and proper SuDS designs have to be integrated into the landscape.

When it comes to foul water, connecting to the local sewer network isn’t always possible due to capacity or location. Reedbeds can offer a low-cost, low maintenance off-grid wastewater solution.

GR Water Engineering Ltd can work with you and your consultants to provide specialist design solutions for the following applications:

  • Nutrient mitigation wetlands (for nutrient neutrality)
  • ‘Four Pillars’ SuDS
  • Off-grid wastewater treatment reedbeds and wetlands

WHO WE ARE

GR Water Engineering Ltd is a civil and environmental engineering consultancy specialising in the use of nature based solutions and other sustainable technologies to reduce water pollution.

George Rose is a civil and environmental engineer with over 20 years of experience in the field of water and wastewater engineering. He specialises in the design of nature based solutions (NbS) such as constructed wetlands and reedbeds, and has been actively involved with the Constructed Wetland Association and the Rivers Trust in developing a framework for the assessment of wetland proposals intended for nutrient mitigation, as well as the development of detailed design guidance. George works with a team of engineers proficient in AutoCAD, Civils 3D and Revit to produce exemplary designs that can be used in all stages of planning and construction.

How we Work with You

As a consultancy, we work on a project by project basis, providing you with bespoke designs and specifications appropriate to your requirements. Our scope of design services extends to all areas of civil and environmental engineering, including:

  • Sewage treatment
  • Surface water drainage
  • Ponds and basins
  • Flow and level control structures
  • Pumping stations and rising mains
  • Secondary and tertiary containment for prevention of pollution

For projects involving NbS, our services include planting and landscaping specifications to optimise habitat creation and amenity value without compromising treatment performance.

Whilst we are not a contractor (i.e. we do not undertake construction activities), our designs and specifications are suitable to be used by your own preferred civils / groundworks contractor. Where specialist equipment and materials are specified in our designs, our services extend to procurement which includes sourcing of equipment / materials, verification of specification, ensuring of compatibility with the overall system and liaison with the supplier / manufacturer.

Design deliverables include:

  • Suite of drawings in DWG / PDF format (AutoCAD)
  • 3D models (Revit / Civils 3D)
  • Design statements, including supporting calculations, equipment and material specifications, construction methodology, operating philosophy and maintenance requirements
  • Design risk assessment
  • Schedule of works

“I have had the pleasure of working with George Rose, the Managing Director at GR Water Engineering, for more than 5 years on a number of projects and I am consistently impressed by his expertise and dedication in the field of water and wastewater engineering, and wetlands development. 

George’s work on constructed wetlands and nature-based solutions for treating municipal and industrial effluents is at the cutting edge of best practice. 

I would highly recommend George Rose and GR Water Engineering for their expertise, thought leadership, and dedication to advancing sustainable water management practices.”

Michael Brown
Commercial Director
Geo-Environmental Services Ltd