Communities invited to have their say on major investment to secure water supplies for future generations and create a new destination where people, nature and water can come together 

Anglian Water and Cambridge Water’s plans for a new reservoir in the Cambridgeshire Fens are progressing with updated design proposals presented in the third phase of public consultation. Running from 15 October to 10 December 2025, the consultation is a further opportunity for local communities to get involved and help shape how the project is developed.

The new reservoir is a major investment in the fastest growing region in the country, and one of the key focus areas of the Government’s growth ambitions. As well as helping to ensure a resilient water supply for decades to come, the new reservoir will create jobs and economic opportunities during construction and beyond.

Located in one of the areas most at risk from the challenges of climate change, the reservoir will also contribute to long term goals of ensuring the East of England is resilient to the risks of drought and flooding, by enabling Anglian Water and Cambridge Water to collect excess river water when flows are at their highest, and store it for use in dry summers, when water is scarcer. This would reduce the reliance on sensitive ground water sources such as chalk streams, helping to protect and restore the environment.

The new reservoir will deliver and enable a wide range of “socio-economic” benefits, including creating employment opportunities, offering recreational and educational facilities, supporting local suppliers and services, and boosting local economic spending.

At peak construction – expected to last around 5-6 years – the project will need around 2,000 workers with a wide variety of employment opportunities for local businesses. In the longer term, the new water resource would also help support plans for growth – the new reservoir will supply water to around 250,000 homes every year.

Anglian Water and Cambridge Water are committed to developing the reservoir in a way that delivers lasting benefits for the region – a new destination where, people nature and water can come together.

Geoff Darch, Head of Strategic Asset Planning at Anglian Water said: “The new reservoir represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure water supply to our customers for future generations and create an exciting destination that will transform this area of the Fens.

“We will be creating space for wildlife, such as wetlands, alongside enabling new recreational and educational facilities and natural places for people to explore. It also means creating new jobs and providing opportunities for local communities and businesses.” 

The consultation includes an updated design for the main reservoir site which has carefully considered feedback from earlier phases of consultation and has developed to showcase how the reservoir could become a destination and an exciting new landmark – centred around water, inspired by its surroundings, and deeply rooted in its natural setting. 

The phase three design includes proposals for water-based recreation and a range of on-land recreational activities, including varied walking, cycling and horse riding routes. It also includes ideas that would provide views across the water, and opportunities to get close to water and nature. 

Further information is also available on the infrastructure needed to fill the reservoir with water, treat it, and supply clean water to customers. For the first time, early construction plans including road and rail options are also being provided for the community to provide feedback on.

Natalie Akroyd, Director of Quality and Environment for Cambridge Water, added: “Involving communities and stakeholders is a key part of how we’re developing the reservoir. We have learned a lot from our consultations so far, and that feedback has already shaped our plans. This new consultation will continue to help shape the significant social, economic and environmental opportunities for surrounding communities and the whole of the East of England.”

Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: "The Fens Reservoir is a vital part of my plan to get Cambridgeshire and Peterborough moving. It’s not just about securing the water we need; it’s about creating something that delivers for local people.

“Anglian Water is looking at how this reservoir can offer more, from leisure and sport to education and nature. Residents have already shaped the plans, and now there’s another chance to have your say. This new consultation is your opportunity to influence what happens next. I strongly encourage everyone to get involved.”

A range of new consultation materials have been published on the project website, alongside interactive maps, visualisations, and clear instructions on how the public can have their say.

Across the eight-week consultation, Anglian Water and Cambridge Water will be engaging with local communities through a series of in-person events, so people can meet with the project team, find out more, and ask questions. Details of the upcoming events are now on the project website.

For more information on the public consultation and wider project, please visit: www.fensreservoir.co.uk