Sika Contributes to London's Sewer Upgrade

Sika has been a key supplier in the construction of the Thames Tideway Tunnel, Europe’s largest water infrastructure project, designed to address the pollution of the Thames River. With London’s aging sewer system unable to handle the city’s rapidly growing population, the tunnel will capture and divert wastewater overflows, significantly reducing sewage pollution in the river. Sika’s contributions include providing concrete solutions, waterproofing, and technical assistance throughout the project, working closely with joint ventures managing the tunnel’s various sections.

The Thames Tideway Tunnel spans 25 kilometers beneath the Thames, aiming to capture 90% of sewage pollution from combined sewer overflows. With a design life of 120 years, the tunnel is set to improve water quality, restore the river’s ecological balance, and support sustainable urban development. The project, expected to be fully operational by 2025, has already begun protecting the river from pollution during heavy rainfall. Sika’s notes that their technical expertise and early involvement contributed to managing challenges including deep excavation, environmental factors, and safety protocols.

“We were involved in every stage, from the tender process to delivering resilient, long-lasting solutions. The project’s complexity required innovative solutions, and our team’s attention to detail played a crucial role in ensuring its success.” said Sarah Langley, Head of Infrastructure, Sika UK.

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