England may face serious drinking water shortages within the next ten years unless new reservoirs are built, warns a government minister. To tackle this, the government is speeding up the approval process for two major reservoir projects in Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire. However, these reservoirs won’t be ready for at least a decade, and local opposition could still cause delays. Experts also say that households may need to use less water due to rising temperatures and a growing population.
Government Steps to Speed Up Reservoir Projects
The government has shifted final approval power for the proposed Fens Reservoir in Cambridgeshire and the Lincolnshire Reservoir from local councils to the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed. This move aims to reduce delays caused by local objections and “cut red tape,” according to Water Minister Emma Hardy. The reservoirs are planned to be completed by 2036 and 2040, respectively, and will help provide more water resilience in already dry regions with high demand.
Why Reservoirs Matter
Reservoirs collect and store excess rainfall during wet periods, helping to protect against droughts. With climate change bringing hotter, drier summers, the risk of droughts in England is increasing, making new water storage essential. The Environment Agency has already declared a drought in northwest England this year and is monitoring other areas closely.
Growing Demand and Long Waits for New Reservoirs
Rising water demand from new homes, data centres, and industries adds extra pressure on water supplies. England hasn’t built a major reservoir since 1992, soon after the water sector was privatised. Last year, the government and water companies announced plans to build nine new reservoirs by 2050, which could provide 670 million litres of extra water daily. Along with the ongoing Havant Thicket reservoir in Hampshire, these projects show a renewed focus on expanding water storage.
Balancing Speed, Cost, and Community Concerns
While speeding up approval could help, building reservoirs is expensive and could raise water bills. These projects also take many years, with no major reservoirs expected this decade. Local communities may oppose reservoirs due to concerns about losing homes and farmland. Some experts warn that relying only on reservoirs won’t solve the problem; managing water use better and reducing waste is also vital.
Experts’ Views on Water Management
Professor Hannah Cloke from the University of Reading stresses the need to reduce water waste, fix leaks, and recycle water rather than only building new reservoirs. Dr Kevin Grecksch from Oxford University criticises the fast-track approval process, saying it risks angering the public. However, David Porter of the Institution of Civil Engineers says decisions must be made “for the greater good,” even if some local objections arise.
Political Reactions
The shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins blamed Labour’s policies on farming and immigration for adding pressure on water supplies. She praised previous Conservative government plans aimed at safeguarding food security and reducing migration but criticised Labour for abandoning these strategies.
England faces growing challenges securing enough drinking water as climate change worsens drought risks and demand rises. Building new reservoirs is a key part of the government’s strategy, but projects take years and may face local opposition. Experts agree that improving how water is used and conserved must also be a priority. Balancing faster approvals, cost, environmental concerns, and community impact will be essential in meeting England’s future water needs.
