Infrastructure

Waterbutt Installation Project

 

Project Overview

Velta Construction, on behalf of DCWW, successfully delivered a large-scale initiative to install 2,000 fully funded waterbutts for customers across Wales. This project aimed to promote sustainable water use by helping residents collect and utilise rainwater, reducing water waste and lowering household bills. The waterbutt scheme was designed to reduce the usage of potable water by encouraging the collection and reuse of rainwater for watering gardens, grass, and vegetable patches. Rainwater is naturally soft and free from minerals and salts, making it a superior long-term option for plant health while reducing demand on treated water supplies. As part of the initiative, water efficiency products were also offered during installation to enhance conservation efforts.

Project Scope & Execution

  • Installations: Two dedicated teams carried out the installations, completing up to 8 waterbutts per day.
  • Technology Integration: The VYN data system was used for tracking applications, scheduling installations, capturing site evidence, and ensuring compliance through digital documentation.
  • Geographical Coverage: Installations spanned across Wales, including North Wales locations where teams operated remotely.
  • Logistics Management: Timely delivery of waterbutts and efficiency products was coordinated to maintain workflow efficiency.
  • Weekly Coordination: The Velta team worked closely with Welsh Water, planning installations region by region to align with marketing efforts and maximise outreach.
  • Pre-Planning Tools: Velta’s proactive approach reduced the carbon footprint by minimising failed appointments. Customers were asked to send photos of their preferred waterbutt location in advance. This allowed teams to assess the downpipe material, ensure they had the correct fittings, and confirm site access, preventing unnecessary travel and wasted visits.
  • Sustainability & Efficiency: The waterbutt scheme was designed to reduce potable water usage by promoting the recycling of greywater for watering gardens, lawns, and vegetable patches. Rainwater is free from minerals and salts, making it a superior long-term option for plant health and sustainability.

Client:

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW)

Location:

Wales

  • Installations
  • Technology Integration:
  • Geographical Coverage 
  • Logistics Management
  • Weekly Coordination
  • Pre-Planning Tools
  • Sustainability & Efficiency

Challenges & Solutions

  • Geographical Challenges: North Wales installations required remote working logistics, which were managed through precise route planning and coordination.
  • Customer Coordination: Ensuring all required paperwork was completed efficiently was achieved through the use of MS Forms and digital tracking.
  • Project Monitoring: Performance was tracked against monthly installation targets, ensuring steady progress.

Customer Feedback

The project received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, highlighting the professionalism, efficiency, and friendliness of the installation team:

  • “Lovely friendly gentleman explained everything – thank you!”

  • “Great communication – very pleased.”
  • “Great job, well done.”
  • “Very efficient – no complaints – great job.”

  • “Very efficient – great service – excellent.”

  • “Communication was very good, and the team that fitted were friendly and very efficient.”

  • “Arrived on time, very helpful when deciding the waterbutt size.”

  • “10/10 excellent service.”

  • “Friendly service – couldn’t be better, very helpful.”

  • “Very efficient, quick fitting of waterbutt. Also, very grateful for the water-saving gadgets.”

  • “Excellent service 10/10. Well done, excellent.”

Challenges & Solutions

  • Positive Customer Feedback: Compliments and satisfaction scores reinforced the success of the initiative.
  • Sustainability Impact: Customers benefited from reduced water usage and cost savings, contributing to long-term conservation efforts.
  • Carbon Footprint Reduction: The pre-planning approach minimised unnecessary travel and material wastage, making the project more environmentally friendly.
  • Project Completion: The installation of all 2,000 waterbutts, along with the distribution of efficiency products, marked the successful conclusion of the project.

Conclusion

Velta Construction’s efficient delivery of the Waterbutt Installation Project has played a significant role in supporting DCWW’s commitment to water conservation. Through seamless execution, innovative data tracking, and a strong focus on customer engagement, the project successfully met its objectives, helping Welsh households adopt more sustainable water usage practices while also reducing the carbon footprint of the installation process.