CASE STUDY: Enabling Faster, Smarter Pumping Station Upgrades in the Upper Thurne
Details
JKH Precast Concrete Solutions in collaboration with ACE
The Upper Thurne is a low-lying wetland catchment within the Norfolk Broads, one of the UK’s most environmentally significant landscapes. The area comprises a network of rivers, broads, marshes and drainage systems that support internationally protected habitats, local communities, agriculture, tourism and critical infrastructure. Due to its flat topography and proximity to the coast, effective water level management is essential to reduce flood risk and protect more than 6,300 hectares of land across the catchment. The ongoing Upper Thurne Drainage Improvements Project is replacing ageing pumping stations to improve flood resilience, safeguard sensitive ecosystems and ensure the long-term sustainability of the region’s water management infrastructure.
the challenge
The Upper Thurne catchment required the upgrade of multiple pumping stations across a complex and environmentally sensitive landscape.
Key challenges included:
- Managing wide operating conditions (low summer flows vs high winter demand)
- Replacing ageing infrastructure across multiple sites
- Ensuring efficient installation at scale
- Reducing on-site construction time and complexity
- Meeting environmental requirements, including fish and eel passage
Traditional construction methods and standard components limited efficiency and increased installation time.
the solution
Working alongside Aquatic Control Engineering (ACE), JKH designed and supplied precast concrete headwalls engineered for integration with the wider pumping system.
This included:
- Factory-cast headwalls with integrated pipe stubs
- Direct connection points for mechanical systems
- Off-site manufacturing to streamline on-site installation
This approach eliminated the need for on-site formwork and enabled faster, more precise installation.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Integrated precast design
Pipe stubs cast directly into headwalls for immediate connection - Faster installation
Eliminates days of on-site casting and formwork - Reduced site complexity
Simplifies coordination between civil and mechanical teams - Improved efficiency
Supports overall system performance and reliability - Scalable solution
Suitable for multi-site infrastructure programmes
the RESULTS
JKH’s precast solution enabled:
- Significantly faster installation across multiple pumping stations
- Reduced construction time and on-site labour
- Improved alignment and integration with pump systems
- More efficient and reliable water management infrastructure
By delivering engineered precast components, JKH helped streamline delivery across the Upper Thurne project while supporting long-term system performance.
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Here at JKH Ltd we design and construct a range of precast concrete and steel for any project. We can work with you to design the best drainage solution for your needs. To find out more about our range of bespoke steel grating products please visit us online or get in touch with our expert team via phone today.