Southern Water has launched a public consultation on its plans for new sustainable water sources to protect Hampshire’s iconic chalk streams and maintain supplies for customers.

The water company is consulting on its Hampshire Water Transfer and Water Recycling Project which will enable it to take less water from the sensitive chalk streams of the River Test and River Itchen during a drought, while maintaining essential supplies.

The plans centre around the Havant Thicket Reservoir which is being funded by Southern Water and developed in collaboration with Portsmouth Water in an innovative cross-company agreement.

These latest proposals are separate from the current, approved plans for Havant Thicket Reservoir and are subject to further consultation and planning approvals.

The six-week consultation, which launches on 5 July and ends on 16 August, comes as the weather heats up in Hampshire and demand on water increases, putting pressure on our networks and local rivers.

In addition to increasing investment in finding and fixing leaks, and supporting customers to save water, Southern Water proposes to:

• Build a new water recycling plant south of Havant and use an innovative technology to turn treated wastewater into recycled water. The water would then be transferred via a new underground pipeline to the reservoir so there is more water available for use during a drought.
• Build a new underground pipeline to transport water from the reservoir to Southern Water’s Otterbourne Water Supply Works, where it will be treated further to become drinking water.

The water company is inviting people to have their say via an online portal or at several drop-in sessions being held along the potential route of the pipeline.

Mark Wintringham, Southern Water’s Head of Project Delivery, said:

“We really hope people will get involved in the consultation and help us shape our plans to improve their water supply and protect the environment.

“The Hampshire Water Transfer and Water Recycling Project will transform the way we source, treat and supply water across the county for years to come and will significantly protect Hampshire’s chalk streams and the wildlife that lives in and around them.

“Water is vital for all life, so it’s essential we take less from the environment while meeting everyone’s needs. Striking this balance is particularly important as our population continues to grow and climate change leads to more uncertain weather patterns and longer, hotter summers.”

Southern Water will pursue the plans under the Development Consent Order planning route, after the project was classified by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs as one of national significance.

Mark Wintringham continued:

“The Development Consent Order consenting regime provides the best opportunity to deliver this significant and regionally important water resource project as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Southern Water will also soon be consulting on its draft Water Resources Management Plan – the long-term plan looks at how the company will secure future water resources across its region.

Click here to access the consultation online

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