Havant Thicket reservoir to boost the South East's economy by over £50m

Portsmouth Water has quantified the economic benefits to be derived from the new Havant Thicket reservoir.

A study carried out by the University of Birmingham found that during the build phase, the new water resource will boost the South East's economy by £50m, including by creating 84 construction jobs and up to 20 apprenticeships.

Once operational, the reservoir will contribute around £2m a year to the local economy, mostly due to the new recreational and environmental facilities being provided onsite which are expected to attract over 100,000 visits per year.

Portsmouth Water chief executive Bob Taylor commented: “As well as playing a fundamental role in protecting two of our region’s precious chalk rivers, Havant Thicket reservoir is set to drive major economic growth across the South East.”