England is planning to construct 10 new reservoirs by 2050 as part of efforts to secure future water supplies, a move that comes amid growing concerns about water scarcity exacerbated by climate change. Climate models predict wetter winters in England, prompting discussions about the feasibility of storing this excess water for drier periods.
The development of new water storage infrastructure has been hindered for over three decades due to debates between water companies and regulators regarding investment and the potential impact on water bills. A 2025 review by the government acknowledged that both perspectives held some validity.
Building new reservoirs, however, presents substantial challenges. According to Dr. Ross Woods, an associate professor of water and environmental engineering at the University of Bristol, suitable locations for large reservoirs often require specific topographical features, such as sloping land and valleys, which are not universally available across the country. One proposed site for a major reservoir near Abingdon, Oxfordshire, has become a focal point for public debate, with some residents opposing it due to concerns about environmental damage, including the potential destruction of ancient woodlands.
In an effort to expedite these projects, the government has designated Abingdon's proposed reservoir and another site as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. This designation bypasses some local decision-making processes. However, these projects must still meet stringent environmental standards, including achieving "good" water quality, which is currently met by only 14% of water bodies in England. The Environment Agency has indicated that the costs associated with treating water to meet these standards could render new reservoirs financially unviable.
The issue of water supply has become increasingly critical, with England experiencing droughts and water shortages. The long-standing underinvestment in infrastructure is a significant factor contributing to the current situation. The debate over the cause of summer droughts and the best methods for future-proofing water supplies remains ongoing.
Historically, England has not seen major new reservoir construction for over 30 years, a gap that current plans aim to address. The success of these ambitious reservoir projects will depend on overcoming not only the financial and regulatory hurdles but also the significant environmental considerations and public engagement challenges.