ABOUT US AND COMPANY PROFILE
Thank you for considering Universal Aqua (a trading name of Universal Aquaculture Limited) for your project.
My name is Ben Woodward, Company Director of UAL. I oversee all projects from initial concept through to completion, ensuring a consistent standard of quality and delivery at every stage.
Fair Pricing Policy
We operate a transparent, fixed-pricing approach across all projects. This ensures fairness and consistency for every client, regardless of project size or scope.
Our business has been built on recommendation and trust, and we believe that delivering a high level of service alongside fair, honest pricing is fundamental to long-term success.
Qualifications and Experience
BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management
Foundation Degree (FdFSc) in Fishery Science
National Diploma – Triple Distinction in Aquatics and Ornamental Fish Management
Certificate in Fish Anatomy and Physiology
Certificate in Fish Diseases and Pathogens
OATA Certificate in Fish Biology
Awarded the 2004 Rolfe C. Hagen Glass Rose Dish for outstanding performance in Fish Science at Sparsholt College (Centre of Excellence)
About Universal Aqua
Universal Aqua is an innovative, multi-disciplinary company specialising in the design, construction, and project management of both ornamental and commercial aquatic environments.
Our work spans natural swimming ponds, lakes, wetlands, aquaculture systems, and high-end bespoke aquariums. In addition, we supply and distribute specialist aquatic products, with a focus on premium, tailored solutions.
While we remain a relatively small company, this allows us to maintain a highly personal approach. Every project is delivered with close attention to detail, clear communication, and a strong focus on the client’s specific requirements.
I have guest spoken in The House of Lords, UN Conference on African Agricultural Futures, The Liverpool World Museum and many educational institutions
NOTABLE PROJECTS
Proven Track Record
Over the past two decades, we have delivered some of the most technically challenging and visually striking aquatic projects in the UK and internationally.
Our work spans historic restoration, large-scale natural swimming ponds, advanced aquaculture systems, and one-off specialist installations that simply do not have an off-the-shelf solution.
Selected Work
We have restored historic Sussex water features dating back to the 1890s, bringing them back into full working order while preserving their original character.
We were responsible for the renovation of Sir Basil Spence’s ACCA pond at the University of Sussex — a project requiring both sensitivity to design heritage and modern engineering solutions.
In 2004, we constructed the BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time pond, delivering a feature that combined functionality with broadcast-quality presentation.
Internationally, we have designed innovative aquaculture systems, including a “catch-and-eat” trout fishery in Jordan and an ornamental parrotfish facility in Syria — projects that required both creativity and practical delivery in challenging environments.
Closer to home, we designed and built one of the UK’s largest natural swimming ponds at South Lodge Hotel — a flagship installation combining high-end aesthetics with chemical-free water management.
Our environmental work includes the creation of wetland habitats for water voles along the “Missing Mile” between Gloucester and Stroud, featured on BBC Countryfile.
We have also delivered highly specialised installations such as Europe’s largest double bull-nosed jellyfish aquarium, alongside commercial hatchery systems including the Bourne Hatchery in Hadlow, Kent.
Our long-standing relationship with Sparsholt College has seen us design and build multiple teaching and research systems, supporting the next generation of aquaculture professionals.
In addition, we have undertaken numerous projects across private estates, stately homes, and commercial sites throughout the UK and Channel Islands.
How We Work
We are not a volume contractor.
We take on projects where experience matters — where there is no template, and where getting it wrong is not an option.
Whether restoring a 19th-century water feature or delivering a modern, high-performance system, our approach remains the same: practical engineering, attention to detail, and results that stand the test of time.
