Proposed Reservoir

Possible Reservoir at Clayhill

The South East Water Company has identified the area shown on the above map as their preferred site for a new reservoir as part of their strategy for meeting water demands in the period up to 2030. They are currently undertaking tests to determine the suitability of the site within the survey area enclosed by the red dotted lines on the accompanying map. The result of these tests will be known within two years and, if they are favourable, a planning application will be submitted by the company. If the application were to be successful construction could be expected to be completed in 2015.

Also shown on the map, in blue, is the outline of a reservoir that was being considered for construction in 1972, although those plans were abandoned in favour of building the current reservoir at Ardingly. While there are no guarantees that any new reservoir will be similarly sited, the 1972 plan probably gives a fair indication of what any new one might look like given the nature of the landscape. Although the reservoir would be fed by existing water courses the proposal envisages the bulk of the water being pumped from the river Ouse at Barcombe during high winter water flows and then stored for use during drier periods.

The Parish Council is not opposed to a new reservoir in principle but is strongly opposed to this particular site and the threat it poses to some magnificent and unspoilt landscape. It will continue to argue for any development to take place adjacent to the existing Barcombe reservoir on the west side of the A26. The Council has also been concerned that large area identified for survey work may result in an unnecessary and prolonged 'planning blight' for many adjoining property holders. Consequently it has urged the company to redefine and reduce this area as soon as possible and make it clearer which land and properties are most likely to be at risk.