In this episode of the U&I podcast, James Neil is joined by Gareth Smith, the Town Planning Manager at Severn Trent Water. They discuss the challenges and opportunities currently facing the water industry as we enter AMP8. With more than 15 years of experience, Gareth brings a wealth of insight into how Severn Trent is tackling some of the UK’s most pressing infrastructure issues. From sewer overflows and river quality to planning reform and workforce transformation, this conversation explores the scale of the task ahead - and the passion driving it. We cover everything from £15 billion investment plans and smart networks powered by AI, to the importance of apprenticeships and the need for planning system reform. And we even talk about car gearboxes. At Dalcour Maclaren, we’re proud to support Severn Trent and the wider water sector in delivering critical infrastructure that benefits communities and the environment. U&I is your go-to podcast for the utility and infrastructure sectors. Brought to you by Dalcour Maclaren, it’s packed full of industry insight and expert perspectives. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in: land delivery and property management environment and planning geomatics land surveying land referencing stakeholder engagement We discuss complex issues in an honest and practical way, from policy updates to planning and project delivery. Follow us on Linkedin: / dalcour-maclaren