Arbtech launches water division with new director

Chester-based ecology consultancy Arbtech has appointed Antony Riozzi as director of water to head up a new division responding to client demand for flood risk and drainage services.

Antony joins from Miller Homes, where he spent nine years as a senior engineer on development projects, having previously worked in consultancy and with a local flood authority reviewing and approving flood risk assessments and drainage strategies.

He said: “It is an incredibly exciting time to be joining Arbtech and I am looking forward to bringing my expertise to drive the new Water division forward. 

“There is such high demand for water services from development due to naturally unconstrained land becoming increasingly difficult to find and the impacts of climate change on flooding. 

“It is also a key element of planning policy for all developments to consider. 

“I’m working closely with developers, landowners, infrastructure providers and public bodies to support their development ambitions.”

Arbtech employs 170 staff across England and Wales, delivering ecology and biodiversity surveys to the UK’s development and real estate sectors. 

The new water division will help clients identify flood risk areas, manage surface water flooding, improve flood resilience and address water-related issues affecting development plans.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Arbtech has supported over 50,000 planning applications and obtained more than 1000 protected species licences. 

The company will expand recruitment across all levels in October as it aims to reach £100 million turnover by 2029.

Robert Oates, founder and chief executive, added: “We are always seeking innovative solutions for our customers and the introduction of a new water division is a natural progression for the business. 

“Antony is highly respected and experienced in his field and his work in the housebuilding sector will bring an important skillset to our growing business.”

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