Project Hydrus

Overview

The Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) is responsible for delivering the UK’s Trident Missile programme on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Project Hydrus, a £120 million hydrodynamics facility, was designed to house three specialist test machines being manufactured in the United States, together with a toxic waste encapsulation plant arising from experiments. The project was critical to maintaining national defence capability.

The Challenge

After more than 10 years in development, the project required decisive action to complete the building design, secure planning approval, and mobilise a contractor for construction. With fragmented teams and unclear accountabilities, the programme lacked cohesion and momentum. Strategic uncertainty arising from a pending government defence review added to the pressure to demonstrate readiness and value.

Our Approach

We provided programme leadership and strengthened governance by:

• Restructuring the project team to integrate client staff with external specialist consultants.

• Establishing service level agreements and clear programme, cost, and risk management controls.

• Directing preparation of the planning submission and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Managing the appointment of the principal contractor and guiding their early mobilisation and temporary works programme.

The Outcome

Despite the later impact of a government defence review, the design was completed and planning permission granted by West Berkshire Council. By the time of the government’s decision, the main contractor was fully mobilised and ready to commence works, ensuring the project was positioned to proceed without delay had approval been given.