New reservoir planned for Somerset village

A new reservoir is planned for Cheddar in Somerset

Plans for a new reservoir near the Mendip Hills in Somerset have been put forward by South West Water.

The project, called Cheddar Two, will also see new treatment works and a connection to Bickham Moor near Tiverton, Devon.

The idea was first suggested by Bristol Water in 2013 but the project was scrapped in 2018, with the water company claiming it was no longer needed.

South West Water, which took over the management of Bristol Water in February, has now put the project forward in its business plan for 2025 to 2030.

Julian Sayer from the Cheddar Vision Group

The existing Cheddar reservoir is a leisure attraction for the village, with locals and visitors using the site for walking, bird-watching and sailing.

Julian Sayer, who is part of the Cheddar Vision Group, said it was a positive development.

"It could be something that is also a water attraction for people, for wildlife. It could be a fabulous resource," he said.

The existing Cheddar reservoir

South West Water said it was not in a position to directly confirm further details of the project, including how much bills might have to rise to fund the construction.

In a statement the company said it was "currently undertaking preliminary studies" into how it could meet the needs of the region it covered for years to come.

The company indicated in its business plan that the new reservoir could be in use by 2032 if planning permission was given.

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