Major Reservoir Project in Kent Takes First Steps Toward Construction

Plans to construct a significant new reservoir in the Kent countryside have progressed as contractors initiate ground investigation works. South East Water (SEW) is advancing with a project that aims to establish a 200-acre facility on farmland in Broad Oak, near Canterbury. This initiative, which has been under discussion for decades, marks a crucial step in addressing the region’s water supply needs.

Currently, trial pits are being excavated, and soil samples are being analyzed as part of the exploratory phase of the £362 million scheme. Full construction of the reservoir is not expected to commence before 2030, with SEW indicating that the site could start supplying water to homes and businesses in Canterbury, Whitstable, and Herne Bay by the “mid-2030s.”

Once completed, the reservoir is projected to hold 5,126 million litres of water, providing approximately 22 million litres daily, which is roughly equivalent to filling 275,000 baths. Project manager Ben McKellar has emphasized the importance of these surveys, which will inform the full planning application expected to be submitted in 2028.

Project Timeline and Community Impact

The reservoir will take raw water from the nearby Great Stour river at Monkton, storing it until needed, at which point it will be treated and distributed to local consumers. Mr. McKellar stated, “It is a very large project. In the coming months, residents will see us pulling off site with regards to the ground investigation. It is only when we award contracts in about 2030 that they will start seeing some construction happening, and that will be over a period of around five years or so.”

The plan for the Broad Oak reservoir has been in development for many years, with SEW now recognizing the pressing need for additional water resources. McKellar noted, “We have been putting it off, but now it is time to build. This reservoir will provide resilience to our water network. It will make sure that our customers will have water flowing to their taps.”

In addition to addressing water supply, the project includes plans for community enhancements. The site will feature footpaths, cycle paths, an art trail, and picnic areas, aimed at transforming the reservoir into a recreational destination for families.

As construction progresses, SEW is committed to keeping the community informed and engaged, ensuring that the project not only meets the region’s water needs but also enriches the local environment and lifestyle.