The largest reservoir improvement scheme in the UK

Abberton Reservoir Scheme

Originally constructed in the 1930’s, the Abberton Reservoir had the capacity to stock 26 billion litres of water. Located in south east England, the facility supplies drinking water to the residents of Essex. To meet the needs of a rising population Essex & Suffolk Water implemented a scheme to increase the storage capacity, whilst minimising impact on the environment and improving amenity and ecological habitats.

Stantec was appointed to design sustainable solutions for expanding the reservoir to meet future demands. We focused on the need to maintain water production, retain existing key assets, and minimise disturbance of the reservoir that was to remain fully-operational during construction activities. We developed infrastructure improvements around the reservoir including a replacement off-take pumping station, re-engineered valve tower, pipelines and discharge channels, an outlet tunnel at the main dam and the re-routing of 2km of existing public highway around the enlarged reservoir perimeter.

Our team used the highest professional standards to ensure environmental protection and sustainable engineering. We increased Abberton’s storage capacity by raising the reservoir top water level by 3.2m to provide an additional 15,000Ml of raw water storage, an increase of 58%. The Abberton Scheme secures water supplies to Essex for generations to come, ensuring we are prepared for the future. The scheme has also provided additional benefits for the local community and the reservoir is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area under the Habitats Regulations and a Ramsar Site – a wetland of international importance.