Environmental group says reservoir 'not fit for purpose'

The South East Strategic Reservoir (SESRO) has been met with 'disgust' by local councillors

Plans for a new reservoir in Abingdon have been branded "not fit for purpose" by an environmental group.

The proposed artificial lake - known as the South East Strategic Reservoir (SESRO) - has been met with "disgust" by local councillors.

The Oxfordshire branch of Campaign to Protect Rural England has now released a statement raising its concerns about the "mega reservoir".

It comes after chancellor Rachel Reeves announced her support for the scheme during a speech in Eynsham last week.

However, campaigners say the proposal would have "massive environmental and carbon costs".

In a statement, the local group said: "Eleven times the size of Farmoor, it would be the biggest reservoir in Europe and its construction would threaten over 200 veteran and ancient trees in the area, along with the wildlife that depend on them.

"It would increase flood risk in the area by raising the groundwater levels by a metre, further exacerbated by the loss of trees and natural landscape.

"We believe the multi billion pound cost of building the reservoir would be more effectively spent by investing in infrastructure, fixing the leaks and upgrading sewage treatment works which is so urgently needed."

The Oxfordshire branch of Campaign to Protect Rural England has said the reservoir is 'not fit for purpose'

The group has said it will continue calling for a public inquiry and is urging the government to focus on brownfield sites for more affordable housing.

The statement added: "Rather than ignoring the voices of local communities and bulldozing through major developments, we must consider how we bring people together into the decision-making process to ensure a thriving countryside that benefits everyone."

The chancellor previously said there would be a public consultation about the reservoir.

Thames Water announced the reservoir was "crucial to securing future water supply" for 15 million customers.

The water firm has said the reservoir is expected to be operational by 2040 and would support Thames Water, Southern Water and Affinity Water in delivering supplies during periods of drought.

It also said the site would "help to meet the increasing pressures of climate change and demands of a growing population" and that it would "create thriving natural habitats and wetlands, offering recreational opportunities from walking to sailing and fishing".

A Thames Water spokesperson said the government had approved its Water Resource Management Plan last year after "extensive public consultation".

"We're continuing our community engagement this year and can reassure local residents that the reservoir will not increase flood risks," they added.

"We're also working with stakeholders to explore opportunities for enhancing local flood resilience."