The framework is valued at £3.7bn and is expected to be worth in excess of £400m to Galliford over its initial six-year period.

The business has been selected for places on Lot 1, for the design and build of mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, controls and automation (MEICA) and civil engineering projects, and Lot 3, mechanical and electrical contractor for capital maintenance projects.

Chief executive Bill Hocking said: "We are delighted to be working with our partners at Wessex Water to assist them in delivering their plans for AMP8.

"The significant increase in activity anticipated in the water sector is a key part of our Sustainable Growth Strategy, and we look forward to delivering for Wessex Water's customers and stakeholders."

The announcement follows Galliford’s recent appointment to the Southern Water Capital Programme Strategic Delivery Partner Framework worth approximately £500m to the business.