Thames Water Seeks Contractors for £5.7 Billion Reservoir Project
Thames Water has initiated a significant procurement process for a £5.7 billion reservoir project, dubbed the White Horse Reservoir. This project aims to bolster drought resilience across the South East, providing water to approximately 15 million residents.
Overview of the White Horse Reservoir Project
The planned reservoir, located southwest of Abingdon, will have a capacity of 150 billion liters. This marks an essential investment in the UK’s water infrastructure, the largest in nearly a generation.
Key Features and Infrastructure
- Type: Fully bunded, non-impounding water reservoir
- Area: Approximately 6.7 km²
- Water Source: River Thames with a pumping station and 4 km of tunnels for water transfer
This ambitious project will involve multiple stages, starting with early contractor involvement to ensure efficient execution. The first phase includes enabling works like site clearance, utility diversions, and necessary surveys.
Major Construction Elements
- Earthworks and embankments
- Replacement flood storage
- Tunneling and pipelines
- New infrastructure including roads and overbridges
- Floodplain works and drainage
- Temporary rail siding to minimize heavy vehicle traffic
Additional responsibilities for contractors include establishing intake and outfall structures, environmental management, and the long-term management of land and habitats.
Investment and Economic Impact
Thames Water’s Chief Executive Chris Weston emphasized the project’s significance. He stated, “The reservoir is one of the most substantial investments in water infrastructure in decades.”
The construction phase is expected to generate around 1,800 jobs, significantly benefiting families and communities in the region. Weston further noted that the reservoir would not only provide essential water supplies but also facilitate new homes and create a recreational space for the public.
Timeline for Contractors
Interested contractors must submit their applications by 11:00 am on April 24, 2026. Shortlisted firms will be invited to provide detailed tenders following an online applicant briefing on February 11, 2026. Successful bids will allow contractors to engage in this long-term project, expected to conclude by March 2043.
This initiative underlines Thames Water’s commitment to enhancing the region’s water infrastructure while creating economic opportunities.
