Transforming Severn Valley with ground-breaking Funding Strategy
Shropshire Council has officially launched the tender process for the Severn Valley Funding and Finance Strategy, a significant component of the ambitious Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS).
This initiative aims to deliver comprehensive financial consultancy services to underpin a wide-ranging water management project designed to enhance climate resilience and community wellbeing across the Upper Severn region. With key partners including the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales, this project is set to be a game-changer for sustainable infrastructure and environmental innovation.
The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme: A Collaborative Effort
The SVWMS is not just about controlling water—it’s about reimagining how natural landscapes can be used to combat climate change and support local communities. With the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales leading the technical aspects of water management, Shropshire and Powys Councils are focusing on local needs, integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into the strategy.
This collaborative project emphasises a holistic approach to water management, leveraging natural processes to improve climate resilience while enhancing the wellbeing of local communities. The broader scheme aligns with regional priorities, targeting flood prevention, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable land use. The newly tendered Funding and Finance Strategy is crucial to realising this vision, aiming to secure long-term investment and sustainable funding models that will ensure the project’s success.
A Call for Financial Expertise
The Shropshire Council is seeking highly experienced consultancy support through an open procurement process, classified under the CPV code 66171000. The council requires forward-thinking financial expertise to develop innovative funding and finance models tailored to the project’s unique cross-border challenges between England and Wales.
Key details of the tender include:
- Tender Deadline: 20th September 2024 at 12:00 PM.
- Project Commencement: 18th October 2024.
- Project Conclusion: 30th September 2025.
- Estimated Contract Value: £250,000 (excluding VAT).
- Procurement Method: Open procedure.
The selected consultancy will not only design a robust financing strategy but also help identify and leverage investment opportunities from both public and private sectors. Their role will be instrumental in integrating financial considerations into the larger strategic and technical frameworks of the SVWMS.
Opportunities for Financial Consultants and SMEs
The tender presents a substantial opportunity for financial consultancies, especially those with a track record in strategic infrastructure projects and innovative financing solutions. Shropshire Council is encouraging participation from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that can demonstrate expertise in funding environmental and social initiatives.
The successful contractor will be expected to:
- Develop a comprehensive funding strategy aligned with the technical and strategic objectives of the SVWMS.
- Capitalise on the unique cross-border landscape, considering the broader ecosystem and socio-economic benefits.
- Innovate funding models that unlock private sector investment and ensure long-term commitment.
- Contribute to subsequent phases by developing robust business cases that support the overarching strategy.
The Role of the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales
The technical aspects of water management under the SVWMS are spearheaded by the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales. Their expertise in managing water resources, flood prevention, and habitat restoration is complemented by the funding strategy’s focus on sustainable financing. The collaboration among these entities aims to create a cohesive, integrated approach that delivers multiple benefits across environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
The agencies are also tasked with engaging local stakeholders, ensuring that the strategy reflects the needs and priorities of the communities affected. This place-based approach is vital to ensuring that the project not only meets its technical goals but also delivers tangible benefits to the people living in the Severn Valley.
Strategic Objectives and Expected Outcomes
The Severn Valley Funding and Finance Strategy will serve as the financial backbone of the broader water management scheme. It aims to provide a flexible and innovative approach to funding, focusing on key outputs such as:
- Development of new funding models that support infrastructure delivery, management, and maintenance.
- Exploration of blended finance options that combine public, private, and philanthropic funding sources.
- Creation of investment opportunities that appeal to private sector stakeholders, ensuring the project’s financial sustainability.
Moreover, the strategy is expected to align with broader climate action and sustainability goals, helping to position the Severn Valley as a leader in nature-based solutions. The consultancy’s insights will be crucial in navigating the complexities of funding large-scale environmental projects, especially those that span multiple jurisdictions.
Procurement Details and Submission Process
Shropshire Council is managing the tender through Delta eSourcing, inviting eligible consultancies to participate. The council has emphasised that the contract is suitable for economic operators of all sizes, including SMEs, although selection will be based strictly on the established procurement criteria.
A Promising Future for the Severn Valley
The Severn Valley Funding and Finance Strategy represents more than just a financial planning exercise—it’s a bold step towards reimagining water management and community resilience in the face of climate change. By integrating innovative funding models with technical expertise and local engagement, Shropshire Council and its partners aim to create a legacy of sustainable development that can be a model for other regions.
This project not only addresses immediate environmental challenges but also sets the stage for long-term economic and social benefits. With the right financial consultancy at the helm, the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme has the potential to redefine how we approach water management in the UK and beyond.
