Portsmouth Water to seek contractors to build new £100m new reservoir in Havant

WATER company bosses are on the hunt for contractors to turn plans for a £100m reservoir and leisure facility into reality.
An aerial CGI image of what Portsmouth Water's reservoir could look like after construction. An aerial CGI image of what Portsmouth Water's reservoir could look like after construction.
An aerial CGI image of what Portsmouth Water's reservoir could look like after construction.

Firms are needed to build the Havant Thicket Reservoir and its visitors' centre, install its pipes and mitigate environmental issues.

Portsmouth Water and Southern Water are leading the project in a bid to sustain future water supplies and create a wetland beauty spot.

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The procurement process for the scheme will get under way at an engagement event in Havant on March 25.

Local, regional and national firms will all be briefed on the reservoir plan and discuss their potential involvement in it with Portsmouth Water.

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Bob Taylor, the company’s chief executive, said: ‘We are in a privileged position to be progressing the first water storage reservoir to be built in the UK for decades as the region’s water supplies are put under pressure by climate change, housing growth and the need to protect our natural environment.

‘We are very much looking forward to engaging with companies at all tiers in the supply chain who have an interest in delivering this project successfully for current and future generations.

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‘We are also keen to maximise opportunities for local employment, as well as develop skills and leave a really positive legacy in our communities.’

The reservoir is scheduled to be ready by 2029 and will be flanked by a memorial woodland with more than 3,000 trees of varying species.

Planting has already begun and will eventually link multiple woodland areas to help birds and mammals feed and travel safely and easily.

Portsmouth Water began drilling investigations at the reservoir site between Staunton Country Park and Havant Thicket in December.

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Results of soil samples and groundwater levels are filtering back to the firm now and will inform the construction process of the reservoir.

In the meantime Mr Taylor has vowed to 'maximise market interest and value' through the project’s procurement, while drawing on innovation and community involvement.

Companies have until March 13 to go online and register for Portsmouth Water’s engagement day.

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