Plans for £100m Havant Thicket reservoir move forward after public consultation

PLANS for a £100m water reservoir will push ahead after winning widespread backing.
New proposed water reservoir at Havant ThicketNew proposed water reservoir at Havant Thicket
New proposed water reservoir at Havant Thicket

Portsmouth Water has now submitted its business plans to economic regulator Ofwat, which include a new major water resource for the south east at Havant Thicket.

The firm said it won positive feedback from people living in the area during a consultation.

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The company held a three-month consultation, which ended last month, on the £103m plan. It hopes the reservoir will help share its water resources and increase the reliability of supply.

Portsmouth Water's managing director Neville Smith, left, met with Havant MP Alan Mak to discuss the plans.Portsmouth Water's managing director Neville Smith, left, met with Havant MP Alan Mak to discuss the plans.
Portsmouth Water's managing director Neville Smith, left, met with Havant MP Alan Mak to discuss the plans.

Portsmouth Water's managing director Neville Smith said: '˜In responding to our consultation, our customers have told us very clearly that they support our plans to build the reservoir.

'˜We want it to be a long-term solution to future water needs and a place where people can enjoy a beautiful water environment.'

The reservoir, set to be built by 2029, will provide 23 million litres of water per day.

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It will help reduce water capacity pressure in the surrounding region by storing water taken from the springs at Havant and Bedhampton.  

It will be approximately one mile wide from east to west and run half a mile from north to south, and will include a visitor centre, cycle ways, play areas and a wetland area for birds. 

Mr Smith added: '˜We have listened to customers and have put together a robust plan for the future that ensures resilience of supply while remaining good custodians of the environment.'

Portsmouth Water's draft business plan for 2020-2025 aims to reduce customer bills from 2020 to an average of £97 per year.

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It includes a long-term goal of reducing water use to 100 litres per person per day. The current rate is 144 litres.

Havant MP Alan Mak has backed the reservoir plans following a meeting with Mr Smith. He said: '˜Not only will the plans help to drought-proof our region, but the recreational and leisure facilities have the potential to improve the environment so its enjoyed by current and future generations.'

Ofwat will decide on the business plan by January.