Dave Banks joins Envireau Water

February 26, 2024

Our team just keeps on growing and we are delighted to welcome David Banks as our newest member! 


Bringing a wealth of experience and expertise, nationally and internationally recognised David Banks joins the Envireau team as a Principal Hydrogeologist.


We asked him about his impressive career:


Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to join our team?


'I began my career with Thames Water as an Assistant Hydrogeologist in 1985 where I gained experience with Chalk hydrogeology, drilling, test pumping and geophysical logging, before working for the National Rivers Authority. 


Following this, I spent 6 years in Trondheim in Norway as a Hydrogeologist, before eventually becoming Head of Geochemistry and Hydrogeology. Whilst in Norway, I discovered the world of ground source heat pumps and thermogeology. On returning from Norway, I started working as an independent consultant and promoting heat pumps in the UK, before registering Holymoor Consultancy Ltd in 2008.

Throughout my consultancy career, I have enjoyed a good working relationship with Envireau Water. I have grown accustomed to the culture, values and how the company works, making it an easy decision for me to join and be part of the team. I am excited to embrace new challenges and opportunities whilst here!’ 



Can you describe your role and responsibilities within the business? 


‘Based on my background in thermogeology, practical water resources hydrogeology and especially in hydrochemistry, together with experience of the onshore hydrocarbon industry and mining, I will be getting involved in a variety of projects across the team and supporting them at a high level. I will also be undertaking more of a mentoring role for some of the junior members of staff and helping them progress in their career.’ 



What would you say has been your career highlights? 


‘One of my main career highlights was my first role with Thames Water. There, I gained invaluable practical experience from being on site, such as drilling, test pumping and geophysical logging which definitely helped in progressing my career to what it is today. 


However, I’ve also undertaken a number of humanitarian roles, such as my work with the Norwegian Church Aid and Ground Water Relief where I’ve conducted activities such as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) assessments, WASH provision in refugee camps and also post-war reconstruction. This was a very interesting and rewarding challenge, and I also picked up a lot of practical water engineering knowledge.’ 



What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 


‘I’m a member of my local amateur theatre company and enjoy most parts of this, including acting, directing and backstage work. I’m currently rehearsing in the play “Hangmen” by Martin McDonagh. My other big passion is song. I write and record music, play guitar, and sing in a couple of bands.’ 


 

David is an incredibly valuable addition to the team, and we are delighted to have him in the office and on board! 


Are you interested in joining our talented team? Continue over to our Careers Page to learn more about our current vacancies. 


 

About Envireau Water 


Envireau Water is a team of expert water scientists and engineers who provide guidance on the management and regulation of natural water systems across the UK. By working collaboratively with our clients and the regulators, we deliver robust, sustainable solutions that meet the requirements of all stakeholders. With a loyal client base and our ability to work seamlessly throughout the four nations of the UK, many of our clients know us individually and trust us to find resolutions to their water problems for years to come. 

Share

World Day to combat Desertification and Drought 2025

By Rachael Plant • June 17, 2025
Desertification and drought are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Exacerbated by climate change, the devastating effects of both can be felt across the globe, with an estimated 40% of the world's population impacted by water scarcity events. As global temperatures continue to rise, and severe weather events increase, regions across the globe face the potential for increased frequency and severity of droughts, often progressing rapidly and unexpectedly. As of 29th May this year, a drought was officially declared in parts of the UK, having experienced the driest start to Spring in over 130 years. Whilst the recent rainfall at the start of June has helped to stabilise concerns, uncertainty for the months ahead still remain. How is the UK landscape affected by drought?

Tom Onslow joins Envireau Water

By Rachael Plant • June 12, 2025
Envireau Water is delighted to welcome Tom Onslow to our North Office in Richmond! Tom joined us at the start of the month from Western Australia, where he gained experience working as a Field Hydrogeologist. Prior to this, Tom graduated from Newcastle University with a Master of Earth Science (MEarthSci). Tom is experienced in both field and desk-based activities, including the supervision of water exploration drilling programs, conducting hydrogeological sampling and logging, carrying out pumping tests and analysis and designing and installing groundwater monitoring networks. Tom has also built a strong foundation in technical reporting, having contributed to a wide range of water-related projects, particularly across the mining sector. At Envireau Water, Tom will continue to develop his hydrogeological expertise and provide technical support across a range of sectors both on site and in the office.

Securing your Water Bottling Plant against Climate Change

By Rachael Plant • June 11, 2025
As the threat of climate change continues to grow, the occurrence of extreme weather events is becoming increasingly common across the UK, with the rising frequency of flooding and drought posing significant challenges nationwide. After the recent dry spell experienced across the UK, one thing is clear: climate change is a hazard affecting all industries and it is more important than ever for businesses to take proactive steps to secure their water supplies against these unpredictable weather events. We asked our Principal Hydrogeologist, Shona Symon , for her thoughts on the matter within the bottled water industry. Shona, can you explain the importance for operators to safeguard their water bottling plant against the impacts of climate change, and what challenges may arise if not adequately protected?
Show More

World Day to combat Desertification and Drought 2025

By Rachael Plant • June 17, 2025
Desertification and drought are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century. Exacerbated by climate change, the devastating effects of both can be felt across the globe, with an estimated 40% of the world's population impacted by water scarcity events. As global temperatures continue to rise, and severe weather events increase, regions across the globe face the potential for increased frequency and severity of droughts, often progressing rapidly and unexpectedly. As of 29th May this year, a drought was officially declared in parts of the UK, having experienced the driest start to Spring in over 130 years. Whilst the recent rainfall at the start of June has helped to stabilise concerns, uncertainty for the months ahead still remain. How is the UK landscape affected by drought?

Tom Onslow joins Envireau Water

By Rachael Plant • June 12, 2025
Envireau Water is delighted to welcome Tom Onslow to our North Office in Richmond! Tom joined us at the start of the month from Western Australia, where he gained experience working as a Field Hydrogeologist. Prior to this, Tom graduated from Newcastle University with a Master of Earth Science (MEarthSci). Tom is experienced in both field and desk-based activities, including the supervision of water exploration drilling programs, conducting hydrogeological sampling and logging, carrying out pumping tests and analysis and designing and installing groundwater monitoring networks. Tom has also built a strong foundation in technical reporting, having contributed to a wide range of water-related projects, particularly across the mining sector. At Envireau Water, Tom will continue to develop his hydrogeological expertise and provide technical support across a range of sectors both on site and in the office.

Securing your Water Bottling Plant against Climate Change

By Rachael Plant • June 11, 2025
As the threat of climate change continues to grow, the occurrence of extreme weather events is becoming increasingly common across the UK, with the rising frequency of flooding and drought posing significant challenges nationwide. After the recent dry spell experienced across the UK, one thing is clear: climate change is a hazard affecting all industries and it is more important than ever for businesses to take proactive steps to secure their water supplies against these unpredictable weather events. We asked our Principal Hydrogeologist, Shona Symon , for her thoughts on the matter within the bottled water industry. Shona, can you explain the importance for operators to safeguard their water bottling plant against the impacts of climate change, and what challenges may arise if not adequately protected?

Bethan Joule joins Envireau Water

By Rachael Plant • June 10, 2025
We're thrilled to welcome Bethan Joule to our growing Shrewsbury office! Bethan joins us as a Senior Hydrogeologist, bringing over six years of experience in technical roles at Wardell Armstrong. Prior to this, she graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with an MSc in Environmental Engineering in 2019. Bethan is experienced in preparing abstraction licence applications, delivering Hydrogeological Risk Assessments (HRAs), and overseeing a wide range of site investigations — including borehole drilling and hydrogeological testing - across multiple sectors, including minerals, waste, and construction. At Envireau Water , Bethan will be continuing to provide similar hydrogeological services to our extensive client base whilst also developing complimentary skills across our broad range of sectors.
Show More