SDS, the market-leading water infrastructure systems provider, has today announced its acquisition of Asset International Ltd, which includes the exclusive rights to manufacture Weholite large diameter plastic pipes in the UK and Ireland.

SDS takes over the operation of Asset International’s Newport-based manufacturing facility. The plant, which has been operating for more than 20 years, has the capacity to produce 10,000 tonnes of Weholite products each year, including the manufacture of its BBA HAPAS approved industry-leading HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) large diameter (gravity and low-pressure structured wall) pipe.

Weholite products are used in water management solutions across the construction industry as well as by all UK water companies for water management infrastructure.

Weholite products are widely used to provide water management on housing developments in the form of storm water attenuation tanks, pumping stations, soakaways and flood relief culverts.

Weholite has also been used on major surface water drainage projects including the M25 widening, Airbus factory extensions, rail network improvements, schools building programme, flood alleviation and energy from waste projects.

The new business will trade under the names of ‘Weholite Limited’ and ‘Weholite International Limited’. SDS will provide continuity of service to all Weholite customers and takes on immediate responsibility for ensuring the delivery of current and planned projects.

The move affirms the company’s strategic vision to advance the development of innovative products and services that sustainably manage water, said Patrick Cullen, Managing Director of SDS.

“Our acquisition of Asset International’s Weholite business marks a major milestone in our strategic vision to expand the development of innovative, efficient and cost-effective products and services that tackle the challenges of managing water from source to sea and deliver vital water security.

“Water is both a vital resource for life and a danger to our livelihoods. Whether we have too much or too little, the critical infrastructure required to ensure its supply, whilst also protecting us from flooding, is under increasing stress. The way we manage water in future, therefore, will be fundamental not only to protecting the environment, but also to human well-being and commercial prosperity.”

SDS designs, manufactures and installs water management systems for sustainable infrastructure. The company is the UK’s leader in Sustainable Drainage Systems and has a broad product portfolio that includes solutions for the surface water, wastewater and industrial cooling water industries.

Established in 2002, the privately-owned company with headquarters in Biddisham, Somerset has recently invested over £2 million in extending and modernising its design, engineering and manufacturing facilities in nearby Highbridge.