Maximising benefits in removing or repurposing redundant reservoirs

Tender description

This is a project to research and develop an informative user friendly guide on maximising benefits of removal, discontinuance and repurposing or reservoirs. The impact of the work will ultimately - improve reservoir safety and public protection, - achieve improved outcomes (e.g. environmental, hydrological, ecological, societal etc.) - ensure all relevant considerations are taken into account to achieve the most beneficial outcomes. The research should include a review of the effect of previous/current discontinuance schemes both in terms of the benefits accrued and the dis-benefits and provide advice on the process and the considerations to take into account. It will consider site based surveys of previously discontinued schemes, assessing the impacts and methods used, from design to scheme implementation. Pictorial evidence to support the evidence is encouraged. The works carried out at sites may also be relevant to fluvial embankments and the managed retreat of coastal defences where embankments are removed and restoration schemes carried out on land previously used for industrial use. Consideration on how this guide can potentially support or make use of similar flood assets/defence information is required. Potential benefits are to be described in tangible outputs or costs that can be assessed and potentially reviewed, revisited or monitored again in the future. It should reach credible and robust conclusions, with supporting methods, frameworks and principles; to underpin planning, designing and implementing schemes, as well as to remove infrastructure elements of this type. It should be user focused - clear, usable (to all) and applicable. The main target audience is Owners and operators of Reservoirs, however anyone with in an interest in adaptation may look to use this guidance and so an easily understandable format is vital. A robust and credible output is required, with consideration on how to bring many differing viewpoints to a conclusion. Governance is important and collaboration and wider working is encouraged. Peer review may be necessary. Consideration of access to data and information required, sensitivities and licencing requirements are important.