Fens Reservoir: Local consultation reveals traffic concerns and public amenity priorities

Anglian Water has published findings from its latest public consultation on plans to build a new reservoir in the Cambridgeshire Fens, receiving 438 responses that reveal significant local priorities and concerns. The consultation, which closed in December 2025, showed that traffic impact on surrounding roads and junction safety during construction emerged as the primary worry among respondents. The public's wish-list for the site emphasises practical amenities, ranking toilets, cafes, wildlife viewing spots and affordable low-cost parking as top priorities, while some residents requested non-app-based car park payment options and called for a railway line extension to Chatteris.

Designated a project of national significance, the Fens Reservoir aims to safeguard water supply in one of the UK's driest regions and is scheduled to become operational by 2036. Located on land north of Chatteris, it is one of two reservoirs prioritised by the government, alongside a scheme in Lincolnshire. The reservoir would supply water to approximately 250,000 homes and introduce new recreational and educational facilities alongside wildlife wetlands. The water storage system would draw from regional rivers during high-water periods and release supplies during drier months, addressing long-term water security.

Consultation feedback revealed that 90% of respondents indicated they would visit the site at least annually, with almost half planning monthly visits. However, concerns were raised about the visual impact of a large reservoir in the flat Fens landscape, disruption during the construction phase, and effects on the local community and wildlife. Residents also emphasised the importance of engaging local businesses as suppliers. Anglian Water acknowledged the feedback as "really valuable" and committed to "using it to shape our proposals."

Further investigative work is underway until December 2026 to establish ground conditions and ecology in areas designated for pipe infrastructure and the main reservoir site. This phase involves drilling boreholes and excavation pits but does not indicate the start of construction, according to Anglian Water. A planning application is scheduled for submission in 2027, marking the next milestone in the project's development.