Planning process and timeline

This reservoir is recognised as being a strategic regional asset, so much so that it qualifies as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).

This is due primarily to the size of the scheme and the number of properties it will be able to supply. We will therefore follow the procedures set out in the Planning Act 2008 which provides the framework for how major projects are developed and consented.

We will apply to the Planning Inspectorate, who act on behalf of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) for permission to build the reservoir. Our application would then be considered by the Planning Inspectorate during an ‘examination’, likely to last six months. After examination, the Planning Inspectorate will issue a recommendation to the Secretary of State who will then make a final decision as to whether the project is consented.

The permission is called a Development Consent Order (DCO).

Local people and stakeholders have an important role in influencing how the reservoir is developed and designed. During this pre-application phase, we will be consulting with local people, affected landowners and stakeholders to gather feedback to help shape our proposals before we submit the application for the DCO.

Our autumn 2022 consultation was the first phase in a multi-phase approach – at least two more consultations will follow.

The DCO would also grant powers to compulsorily purchase land and property required for the project, although our strong preference would be to purchase any required land and property by agreement. We are directly engaging with those who may be most affected by our proposals.

You can see where you will have the chance to comment on our proposals on this timeline and find out more about the DCO process here