River diversion
We are the UK’s specialist national contractor for earthmoving, crushing and recycling, and sea and coastal defence works.
We undertake both temporary and permanent river diversion
River diversion projects require careful hydraulic planning, environmental control and precise earthworks execution. OEC undertakes both temporary and permanent river diversion schemes to facilitate infrastructure development, mineral extraction expansion and flood mitigation improvements across the UK.
Our scope includes channel excavation, bed and bank formation, culvert installation, headwall construction and controlled tie-ins to existing watercourses. Each diversion is delivered in accordance with hydrological design parameters to maintain flow capacity, manage sediment transport and protect downstream environments.
We take pride in delivering high-quality work that is also cost-effective. By planning carefully, using our fleet efficiently and reducing unnecessary material movement, we help clients achieve better value without compromising safety, durability or programme certainty.
Temporary diversions are sequenced to enable safe construction within dry working areas, while permanent diversions are engineered for long-term stability and ecological integration. We implement erosion protection measures, bank stabilisation techniques and appropriate lining solutions where required.
Environmental compliance is fundamental. OEC works closely with regulators and environmental consultants to ensure adherence to permit conditions, fish passage considerations and habitat protection requirements. Flow management and sediment control measures are deployed to minimise turbidity and ecological disturbance.
With substantial in-house plant capacity and experienced site supervision, OEC delivers river diversion works safely, efficiently and in line with programme demands. Our integrated approach ensures that development objectives are achieved without compromising watercourse performance or environmental integrity.
River Rother
River Rother
Frequently Asked Questions
Need to know more?
Ovenden Earthmoving Co Ltd (OEC) delivers temporary and permanent river diversion schemes across the UK, including channel excavation, culvert installation, bank formation, erosion protection and hydraulic tie-ins delivered in accordance with detailed hydrological and environmental specifications.
OEC sequences diversion works to maintain controlled flow management, safe dry working areas and uninterrupted site progress. Our in-house plant fleet and experienced site teams enable efficient delivery within constrained programmes, live environments and regulated watercourses.
OEC integrates sediment control, erosion protection, bank stabilisation and habitat protection measures throughout diversion works. We work in coordination with environmental consultants and regulators to ensure compliance with permit conditions, fish passage requirements and downstream water quality standards.
Related services
