Abingdon reservoir construction could support 1,000 jobs

Thames Water has proposed to introduce a new South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) to the south west of Abingdon, which its says would secure the water supply of 15 million people.

The reservoir would provide water to customers in London and the Thames Valley region, including Oxfordshire.

Forecasts suggest the construction of the reservoir would generate jobs for around 930 people in design, construction and management roles.

How the reservoir could look (Image: Thames Water)

The total number of jobs could rise to 1,340 at peak construction in 2031/32.

The roles are predicted to span across 28 occupational groups, covering 166 occupations. The job opportunities cover sectors from logistics to surveying and civil engineering.

Lesley Tait, strategic partnership and legacy manager for Thames Water, said: "Whilst the principal driver for our new reservoir is to safeguard the water supply of 15 million people, there are wider benefits and opportunities from investing in this nationally significant infrastructure project, including job creation and boosting the local economy.

"In the months and years ahead, we will continue to engage and listen to the local communities who will play a part in shaping our design proposals.

"Our ambition is to work with communities and stakeholders across the region to maximise the potential for new skills, education and employment opportunities, alongside the wider leisure, recreation and tourism offer."

David Saab, business alliance manager at Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, added: "Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce supports the proposed reservoir project near Abingdon, which represents a significant opportunity not only for securing water supply but also for driving economic growth in our region.

"The creation of around 1,000 jobs during the construction phase alone will bring substantial benefits to the local economy, providing new career opportunities and fostering skill development across a wide range of industries."

Thames Water has released a brochure, ‘Creating a Lasting Legacy’, which explores the broader opportunities which it says could come from the construction of the reservoir.

The company's strategic resource options team is working with community groups to gather their insights on the design for new wetland and wildlife habitats.

It is also engaging with sports and recreation groups to help to inform the vision for new leisure and community facilities.

Early design proposals, which the public are invited to comment on, include possible education and visitor centres, cafes and a water sports centre.

How the proposed cafe could look (Image: Thames Water)

The public consultation is set to close on August 28, and is available through the Thames Water website.