Full Breakdown
Anglian Water Advances Plans for Fens Reservoir in Cambridgeshire
6/17/2026, 2:33:37 AM
Core Details of the Fens Reservoir Project
Anglian Water proposes a new reservoir north of Chatteris in the Cambridgeshire Fens. Designated a national-significance scheme, it will capture river water during high flow for storage in drier months, supply roughly 250,000 homes, and include recreational, educational and wildlife wetland facilities. The reservoir is slated to be operational by 2036, with a planning application due in 2027.
Background and Context of the National-Significance Initiative
The Cambridgeshire Fens are among the UK’s driest areas, prompting the government to prioritize new water-storage projects to safeguard supply. Fens Reservoir is one of two national-significance reservoirs, the other in Lincolnshire, both intended to capture river water during high-flow periods and store it for drier months, thereby strengthening regional water security.
Key Figures and Stakeholder Groups
Anglian Water leads the initiative, drawing on input from 438 local respondents, the surrounding community, and a network of potential local suppliers that Anglian Water has urged to be used for construction and ancillary works.
Consultation Data and Project Statistics
The consultation recorded 438 responses; 90 % said they would visit the site at least annually, half monthly. The reservoir will be fed by regional rivers when levels are high, serve about 250,000 households, target operation in 2036, and a planning application is due in 2027.
Significance and Expected Impacts
The reservoir enhances water security for a large population, mitigates drought risk, and adds wildlife wetlands, educational facilities and public recreation spaces that can boost local tourism and employment opportunities.
Official Statements & Company Response
Anglian Water described the consultation feedback as highly valuable and said it would be used to shape the proposals. The utility clarified that ongoing borehole drilling and excavation pits are preparatory studies and do not signal that construction has begun.
Public Criticism and Opposition
Respondents raised concerns about increased traffic, junction safety, landscape disruption, wildlife impact, and the lack of a railway link to Chatteris. They also requested that car-park payment not be app-only and urged the use of local businesses for supplies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “really valuable” — Anglian Water spokesperson
- “using it to shape our proposals.” — Anglian Water spokesperson
- “Of the 438 responses, the main concern was around the impact of traffic on surrounding roads, and the safety of junctions during and after construction.” — Anglian Water, Consultation Summary
- “The public's wish-list for the site ranks toilets, cafes, wildlife viewing spots and sufficient low-cost parking among the top priorities.” — Anglian Water, Public Feedback Summary
Upcoming Steps and Timeline
Anglian Water will continue ecological and ground-condition studies through December. A formal planning application is expected in 2027, incorporating feedback on traffic, wildlife, and community benefits. After submission, the utility will assess transport-link feasibility and local-supplier contracts before construction begins.
