Fens Reservoir

Published: 11 September 2023

An update on the new reservoir project from Anglian Water/Cambridge Water...

As we develop our plans ahead of our next phase of consultation in spring 2024, we have been carrying out ground investigation surveys in order to get an even better understanding of our proposed site location. These surveys are being conducted with the permission of landowners.  

 
In addition to the ground investigation surveys, we will soon begin overhead land surveys, carried out by drone. The drones will be undertaking a topographical survey of the land, as well as looking for possible archaeological features.  
 
The anticipated start date is 11 September 2023 and will take approximately two weeks. The drone will be operated between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday; however, this is dependent on light and weather conditions. 
 
The drone will be flown 400–500ft above ground level and will involve a small team (up to four people) who will travel between locations using a couple of vehicles. Where possible we will use public land, such as highway verges, to place the survey control points and from where they will pilot the drones. In the few cases where we will need site access, we will continue to liaise with landowners who have provided their existing permission to access their land as part of the ground investigation works.  
At the height at which the drones operate there will be little to no noise or cause for disturbance as a result of the surveys. In addition, the team conducting the surveys will have no reason to cause any disruption.
We are keen to reassure local residents that these investigations do not represent the start of construction work on the project.