The projects are in the very early stages and we've not yet selected a site for each desalination plant. 

 

This year, we're undertaking some coastal survey work to assess water quality. The work will take place throughout the year so we can monitor water quality throughout the seasons at multiple locations. We aim to have identified a shortlist of preferred sites for each project by early 2026.

These will then be refined further to identify the best possible site for each desalination plant by the summer of 2026.

 

This will be followed by a period of design engineering to identify exactly how the plants could look and work. We will consult local communities during this process as our plans are developed.

 

Currently, we expect to begin construction in the early 2030s and for the projects to be operational with water into supply by 2035 at the earliest.

 

How we will develop the projects

 

We're committed to considering the possible impacts on local marine, land and historic environments throughout the development of the projects.  Starting with a site selection process that considers environmentally sensitive areas. We'll also be looking to make the design as energy efficient as possible.

 

We're working with local authorities, the Environment Agency, the Marine Management Organisation and other key stakeholders to help us minimise potential impacts and identify the best possible sites for our desalination plants.

 

We'll consider local communities as the projects progress, keeping those affected informed at every stage of our work, and engaging with stakeholders as early as possible.