New Peterborough pipelines proposed with area ‘vulnerable to climate change’

Anglian Water is carrying out an Environmental Impact Assessment on its 94km Grantham to Bexwell Pipeline which will incorporate northern parts of Peterborough, including Thorney and Newborough, as well as nearby areas in Lincolnshire.

A new pumping station in Etton is also being proposed.

Explaining the reasons why the pipelines are needed, the water company told Peterborough City Council that it was part of its 25-year Water Resources Management Plan for the East of England which will see a series of interconnecting pipelines created across the region.

Anglian Water said: “The programme will enable us to reduce the amount of water we take from the environment, as well as strengthening long-term resilience by reducing the number of homes and businesses which rely on a single water source.

“The East of England is one of the driest regions in the country, with only two-thirds of the average rainfall and a delicate environmental balance. It is also one of the fastest growing with potential population growth of a million people by 2045.

“Together, these challenges make our region particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including drought and flood.

“Our region is officially classed as ‘water stressed’, meaning we must make careful use of this most precious resource to balance supply and demand.

“The new pipelines will play a key role in meeting long-term water demands.”

Other councils being contacted about the plans include Fenland District Council and South Kesteven District Council.

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