Major water storage tank near Grantham marks milestone in UK’s biggest water infrastructure project

Anglian Water has laid the foundations for a 20 million litre above-ground water storage tank at Welby, near Grantham, in what marks a significant milestone in one of the UK’s largest water infrastructure projects.

The tank, which began construction on 30 April, forms part of Anglian Water’s Strategic Pipeline – a network stretching hundreds of kilometres from North Lincolnshire to Essex. When operational, the pipeline will transfer up to 55 million litres of water a day between Lincoln and Grantham, supported by a new pumping station and generator.

The structure has been modelled on an existing storage reservoir at Rede, near Bury St Edmunds, which sits further along the same pipeline route.

The East of England receives only two-thirds of England’s average rainfall, making it one of the driest regions in the country. It is also among the fastest growing, with population expected to rise by up to one million people by 2045 – a combination that makes the region particularly exposed to the effects of climate change, including drought.

The Welby tank has been designed with sustainability in mind, using recycled materials to reduce carbon emissions during construction. It will sit above ground, unlike most water storage reservoirs.

Aron Petney, Construction Manager at the Strategic Pipeline Alliance, said: “This new 20 million litre water storage tank at Welby is about making sure we’re ready for the future. It will help us store water and move it around the region more easily, so we can keep supplies running during dry periods and support growing communities across Lincolnshire and beyond.

“We’re also focused on building it in a smart and sustainable way, using lower carbon materials and a proven design. That means we can create something that lasts while limiting its impact on the environment.”

The build is being delivered by the Strategic Pipeline Alliance, which includes Costain, Farrans, Jacobs, and Mott MacDonald Bentley. Customers’ water supplies will not be affected during construction, and the project is expected to be complete by autumn 2027.

The Welby tank is part of Anglian Water’s wider £11 billion programme to upgrade its networks across the region.