Why the UK is building more reservoirs and what it means for construction

The UK is entering a new era of water infrastructure, with a number of major reservoirs planned or under construction to help secure future water supplies. Growing demand, climate change and increasing pressure on rivers have highlighted the need for new water storage, making reservoirs a key part of the country's long-term resilience strategy.

Several water companies are leading these projects, including Southern Water, which is delivering the Havant Thicket Reservoir, Thames Water with the proposed South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) near Abingdon, Anglian Water with the proposed Fens and Lincolnshire reservoirs, and United Utilities, which is developing plans for a new reservoir in the North West. Together, these schemes represent billions of pounds of investment over the coming decades.

For the construction industry, the programme presents a significant opportunity. Reservoir projects require a wide range of specialist skills, from civil engineering and tunnelling to environmental management, digital technology and project management. They will create thousands of jobs, strengthen supply chains and provide long-term opportunities for contractors, consultants and apprentices.

Beyond the economic benefits, these projects also support the industry's transition towards more sustainable construction. New reservoirs are being designed with biodiversity, carbon reduction and climate resilience in mind, demonstrating how major infrastructure can deliver environmental benefits alongside economic growth.

As the UK continues to invest in its water network, the next generation of reservoir projects is set to become one of the country's largest infrastructure programmes, providing a welcome boost for the construction sector while helping to safeguard water supplies for future generations.