Cable Installation & Utilities Support
From fibre optics to gas lines, we provide safe, stable access for utility installations — even where road access is impossible.
Access and Utilities Services
Our Specialist Cable Installation and Utilities Support Services
When utilities need upgrading or installing along canals and rivers, standard access just won’t cut it. The Rothen Group bridges the gap with specialist floating platforms, equipment, and logistics support — helping contractors deliver cable and utility works in even the hardest-to-reach locations.
Our boats and barges are equipped to transport vac-ex units, pumps, cable reels, excavators, and more. Operated by qualified helmsmen, they provide a stable working platform and also function as secure storage, welfare units, or tool stations — ideal for longer projects or restricted sites.
Whether it’s fibre optic, gas, electric, or water lines, we provide the vessels, access methods, and expertise to get the job done — safely, efficiently, and without relying on road access.
Need support with cable installation or utilities access on UK waterways? Contact The Rothen Group to arrange a site visit or request a quote.
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FEATURED CASE STUDY
Habitat Creation Coney Meadows, Droitwich
Coney Meadows is part of a nationwide project to restore the UK’s wetlands. Since the 17th century, large areas of reedbeds have been stripped and converted into agricultural land, massively reducing the number of habitats available for wetland animals.
FEATURED CASE STUDY
Changing the Shape of the River Derwent, Derby
Following the storm seasons of 2023 & 2024, the EA set out to review its impact on the UK’s waterways. The River Derwent in Derby was flagged after a sonar scan of its navigation identified a scour hole – a direct result of heavy rainfall pushing sediment downstream.
We support a wide range of utility cable installations in towpaths and waterways, including electric, gas, water, telephone, and fibre optic installations on canals. Whether it's a small-scale upgrade or a major infrastructure rollout, we provide floating access, equipment transport, and a safe working platform to get the job done efficiently.
What types of utility works do you support?
Yes. Many utility routes run through remote or hard-to-reach canal and river sections, where land access simply isn’t possible. That’s where our floating plant for utility works comes in — enabling safe transport of machinery, materials, and crew without disturbing the bank or surrounding environment.
We work nationwide to support installations in isolated, rural, or protected zones where conventional access just doesn’t work.
Can you work in areas with no road access?
Our vessels can carry everything needed for canal utility access solutions, including vac-ex units, cable reels, small excavators, pumps, and welfare units.
Boats can also act as secure storage or working platforms, making them ideal for extended jobs in restricted or sensitive areas. Some units are modular and can be adapted to fit bespoke project requirements.
What equipment can your boats carry?
Yes — we regularly work with utility contractors, local authorities, and civil engineering teams to support cable installation and maintenance. Whether as a subcontractor or full delivery partner, we provide floating access, plant operators, and site logistics.
Do you work directly with utility contractors?
We always aim to reduce disruption to the waterway and surrounding habitat. Our floating platforms for cable installation minimise ground disturbance, avoid damage to towpaths or banks, and help keep works contained and controlled — even in protected or ecologically sensitive zones. We also ensure waste is managed responsibly and equipment is cleaned between sites.
Is your approach environmentally sensitive?
Every project begins with a site assessment to understand the location, access points, and logistical needs. We then supply the right mix of floating platforms, equipment, and experienced crew — tailored to the utility type and site conditions. Our team handles the planning, mobilisation, and safe transport of materials, ensuring a smooth setup from the first day on site.
What’s involved in setting up a cable installation project on the water?
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The Rothen Group
The Rothen Group is a trusted contractor for utility access and cable installation across the UK’s inland waterways. We help utility firms, contractors, and local authorities overcome the challenges of working along towpaths and remote riverbanks — using our fleet of specialist vessels and floating platforms to get equipment, crew, and materials where they need to be.
With decades of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of canal-side logistics, we support everything from fibre optic installations to gas and water line upgrades. Whether it’s a one-day job or a long-term infrastructure project, we deliver safe, reliable access solutions built for the demands of working on water.
