On Location at Britain's First new Reservoir in 30 years
Niki visits under-construction Havant Thicket - Why build new reservoirs and can it be done sustainably?
Planet Possible · Eleanor Shipton, Ruth Frith, James Hansen, Lizzie Sams, Ollie Saunderson, Bob Taylor, Terry Fuller, Hayley Draine
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Show Notes
This episode explores Niki's visit to Havant Thicket, the first new reservoir to be built in the UK, in 30 years.
Niki spoke to Terry Fuller from Future Water, Robert Taylor CEO of Portsmouth Water and other key members of the delivery team about this ambitious project.
The site is owned by Portsmouth Water, who will store and supply Southern Water, as part of a water cooperative.
Once complete, the site will hold 9 billion litres of water and will serve 160,000 customers.
It’s also the first of ten further reservoirs that are planned to be built across the country, in the next 20 years.
The project balances the difficult trade-offs, such as loss of ancient woodland, against major rewilding, habitat restoration, and reduced pressure on water supply.
As a sustainability lead project and with a collaboration focus between water companies and environmental groups, the huge build plans to leave a strong legacy of education, recruitment, training, and a new recreational space for the local community.
Credits
Presented & Produced by Niki Roach
Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited
With thanks to Alastair Chisholm
Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland