Two large-scale reservoir schemes in East Anglia and south Lincolnshire are being accelerated through the planning system in an effort to secure England’s future water supplies. Designated as “nationally significant infrastructure,” the projects will bypass traditional local planning processes, with final approval now in the hands of Environment Secretary Steve Reed.

Set for completion in 2036 and 2040 respectively, the Fens Reservoir in Cambridgeshire and the Lincolnshire Reservoir are expected to improve drought resilience in regions already under water stress. The government says fast-tracking is necessary to prepare for rising demand, climate change and increasingly dry summers, as highlighted by this year’s notably dry spring.

Although welcomed by the water industry and infrastructure experts, the plans face criticism from some academics and local communities. Concerns centre on the potential impact on residents, farmland and the risk of sidelining local voices in favour of national objectives. Others argue a broader focus is needed on cutting leaks, reducing waste and improving water efficiency across homes and businesses.

Despite support for the streamlined approach, experts warn that major reservoirs take decades to deliver and will come with significant financial costs. The government has also confirmed that seven additional reservoir proposals will be granted the same fast-track status in future, as part of a long-term strategy to bolster England’s water resilience.