Portsmouth Water is preparing to launch the procurement programme for future works packages for the first new reservoir to be built in the UK for over 40 years.
The Havant Thicket reservoir will be the first reservoir to be built in the UK since the 1970s and has been earmarked to be built on a 160ha grassland site owned by Portsmouth Water. The reservoir is expected to be in operation by 2029.
According to Portsmouth Water, as well as providing resilient water supplies, it will also create a new green leisure facility for local communities and a new wetland habitat for threatened species of birds.
Once built the reservoir will hold approximately 8,700M.litres of water, with a deployable output of 21M.litres per day. It will be filled in the winter from surplus yield pumped from the prolific springs in Havant.
Atkins was appointed in October 2019 to begin investigations, assessments and design requirements to prepare submission of an outline planning application later this year. The engineer will also support Portsmouth Water on supplier and customer engagement in the run up to the construction works.
The utility company is preparing to launch a procurement programme for several packages of works associated with the project – including reservoir construction, pipeline installation, MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control and Automation) works, environmental mitigation and leisure facilities with a visitors’ centre.
Portsmouth Water chief executive Bob Taylor 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. 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 firm is holding a supply chain engagement day on 25 March for interested parties at all levels of the supply chain.
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