Former Tideway boss knighted in King’s Birthday Honours

ICE Fellow, Sir Andrew Mitchell (also known as Andy Mitchell), has been knighted in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of his services to the construction industry.

Now retired, Sir Andrew led the Thames Tideway project from 2014 until April of this year, meaning he saw the project go from inception to operation.

Affectionately known as the ‘super sewer’, the Thames Tideway Tunnel was built to boost the capacity of London’s original sewer system.

Built in the 1860s for a city of around 4 million people, the system struggled to cope with the almost 9 million people that now live in the English capital.

Construction was completed in 2024, and the super sewer was fully connected in 2025. Since it was ‘switched on’, it has diverted 21 million tonnes of sewage from the River Thames.

Before joining Tideway, Sir Andrew worked on Crossrail (now the Elizabeth line on the London Underground) as programme director. He received a CBE in 2015 for his work on this project.

Aside from the UK, Sir Andrew has worked in France, Hong Kong, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.

Commenting on the list, ICE director general Dr Janet Young said: “It’s wonderful to see engineers recognised for their work on projects that enable people and the planet to thrive.

“From keeping sewage out of rivers to building new hospitals and rail links, the work of our members touches the lives of people around the world every day. I am delighted to see that work being celebrated in this way.”

Learn more about Sir Andrew