Incredible £340million mile-long man-made lake to be built in the UK

The Havant Thicket Reservoir will hold 8.7 billion litres of water when completed in 2029 and 'transform' the way water is sourced, treated and supplied across Hampshire

Construction has begun on the UK's first new reservoir in 30 years, a £340million project aimed at securing the water supply in Hampshire. The Havant Thicket Reservoir will hold 8.7 billion litres of water, protecting the flow from the River Test and River Itchen. Spanning approximately a mile in length and half a mile in width, the reservoir will also feature new footpaths, cycle routes, bridleways and a visitor centre.

Southern Water's CEO, Lawrence Gosden, said: "The UK's first new reservoir in three decades. We've broken ground on the UK's first new reservoir in over 30 years! Due to our growing population, it's predicted by 2030, we'll need an extra 50 million litres of water a day to meet demand."

"The new reservoir will hold up to 8.7 billion litres and help secure the future of water for us and future generations." The project is expected to be completed by 2029, with Gosden adding: "This official launch of the Havant Thicket Reservoir project is an essential part of our plans to create a new resilient water supply for the South East," reports the Express.

"The new reservoir and the planned Hampshire Water Transfer and Water Recycling Project will transform the way we source, treat, and supply water across the county." The necessity to leave more water in the natural environment, particularly in Hampshire's chalk streams, while accommodating both climate change and demographic expansion is paramount.

Portsmouth Water CEO Bob Taylor said: "I am delighted to announce that work to create the new Havant Thicket Reservoir has officially begun." He highlighted the project's significance, adding: "As well as breaking ground quite literally here on site, this milestone represents a ground-breaking moment for the water industry as a whole.

"This is the first major UK reservoir to be constructed in more than 30 years, and I am incredibly proud that Portsmouth Water is delivering the project." He also extended his gratitude to all supporters: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported the scheme to date. It's people who make projects happen and we are fortunate to have so many inspiring and dedicated individuals involved with ours."