As the 2025 earthworks season draws to a close, we want to reflect on how specialist machinery has played a key role in works progressing at Havant Thicket Reservoir over recent months.
At the heart of this development is an 86-tonne long-reach excavator, a specialist machine supplied by WM Plant Hire. Carefully selected for its precision and extended reach, the excavator boasts a 25.5-metre boom and a digging depth of over 20 metres, making it ideally suited to shaping the reservoir basin, especially in confined or technically challenging areas.
With main works starting earlier this year, the excavator has played a crucial role in enabling the safe and efficient construction of the Harwich cut-off wall, a critical underground barrier that will span approximately 2.5 kilometres. This structure is designed to retain water within the reservoir and protect the underlying groundwater.
The cut-off wall is being delivered through a highly coordinated effort involving several specialist contractors. With Keller leading the installation, Coffey providing the design and site supervision to confirm 1m embedment into the Reading beds which vary in depth, while WJ Dewatering is also playing a key role in the delivery. Future Water is proud to be enabling and partnering with these experts to bring this vital infrastructure to life. It’s a true example of our ethos: Future Focused Construction, Powered by Partnership.
Ryan George, Project Manager, commented: “This is one of the many important steps in building the reservoir, making sure the basin stays watertight. We’re excited to have Keller, WJ Dewatering, and Coffey on board for this phase of progress. The job is highly technical and challenging, so it calls for the expert skills of the entire team and wider supply chain, strict quality control, and careful oversight every step of the way.”
This marks another step forward in delivering Portsmouth Water’s flagship Havant Thicket Reservoir project, the first major new UK reservoir to be built in over 30 years. As work continues to progress, we’ll keep sharing updates that highlight the innovation, collaboration, and care driving this landmark project.
At Future Water, we’re passionate about helping new talent grow by offering real industry experience and clear career paths. Matt’s story is a great example of how combining practical learning with hands-on work can open the door to exciting and lasting opportunities.
Matt joined Future Water in December 2024 as part of his T-Level in Construction, completing a nine-week placement on a live construction site. From day one, Matt was impressed by the scale of the project, the welcoming environment, and the strong sense of teamwork.
“When I started with FW, I was blown away by everything. The plant, the people, and the environment were absolutely outstanding. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, and I quickly made friendships that I looked forward to each day.”
During his placement, Matt had the opportunity to shadow engineers, supervisors, and site managers, gaining insight into day-to-day operations, health and safety practices, and the complex coordination involved in delivering a major project. Despite the long hours and challenging weather conditions, Matt’s enthusiasm and commitment remained unwavering. He also took on practical tasks such as presenting toolbox talks, testing the consistency and workability of concrete, and strand picking, while developing a strong awareness of environmental considerations on site.
“From the moment I stepped onto site, I was made to feel part of the team. The support I received helped me understand the different roles on a project and made me realise this was exactly where I wanted to be.”
Following the few months of work experience, Matt engaged in conversations with colleagues across the business to explore various roles. His interest naturally gravitated towards site supervision and construction management, roles he could envision himself thriving in as his career progressed.
“There were many roles that helped me open my career paths, but site supervisor/construction manager was top of the list because I knew I could see myself doing this in the future.”
Recognising his potential and dedication, Future Water offered Matt an apprenticeship as a Sub Agent, which he gladly accepted. Returning to the company, Matt continues to develop his skills, contribute to key projects, and strengthen his relationships within the team.
“Being offered an apprenticeship was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. I was excited to come back to Future Water, continue building relationships, and work hard on the projects.
Looking ahead, Matt has a clear vision for his career:
“My aim is to become a Project Director. I want to lead my own project, experience the pride of seeing it through from start to finish, and reflect on how far I’ve come.”
When asked what advice he would give to those considering a career in construction:
“If you’re thinking about entering the industry, I’d say go for it 100%. There’s so much construction happening right now, it’s an incredible time to join. You’ll make lifelong friendships, enjoy your work, and no two days will ever be the same.”
At Future Water, we remain dedicated to creating pathways for young people to grow into confident, skilled professionals who will help shape the future of the construction industry.
Interested in starting your own journey with Future Water? Explore our current career and apprenticeship opportunities on our Careers page.
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Aleksandra is not just holding her own, she’s breaking new ground. She’s not only helping build the UK’s first major new reservoir in over 30 years, but she’s also breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In fact, women currently make up fewer than 2% of site-based construction roles in the UK, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Aleksandra’s career path didn’t begin in construction; in fact, she initially trained in accountancy but quickly found the role repetitive and uninspiring. It wasn’t until her boyfriend suggested that she contemplate a role as a plant operator, that she considered a career within construction. Motivated by the prospect, Aleksandra researched the qualifications she needed and began working towards her certifications, quickly earning the tickets that now allow her to operate machinery on site.
“I’ve always loved being outdoors,” Aleksandra says.
“As a kid, I was always playing in mud and clay. This doesn’t feel like a job.”
A typical day for Aleksandra starts with a morning briefing, followed by moving materials across the site. Knowing she’s playing a vital role in building the reservoir keeps her both motivated and energised.
Aleksandra’s enthusiasm never wavers. Her passion for the job continues to drive her forward.
Since joining the Future Water team in April 2025, Aleksandra has gained valuable experience working across multiple areas of the site.
She reflects with pride on the opportunity:
“Once it’s completed, I’ll bring my friends and family here. Showing them that I helped build something really special.”
But for Aleksandra, it’s more than just a construction job and differs from anywhere else that she has previously worked.
“This is a unique project that’s going to benefit future generations. You can really see the difference your work makes here.”
As the only female plant operator on site, Aleksandra brings a unique and fresh perspective to her role.
“I love it. You’re really well looked after on this site”
And when it comes to proving herself in a male-dominated environment, Aleksandra says that it is no longer a concern:
“At the beginning, maybe. But not anymore. I don’t feel like I have to prove anything as a woman. I feel like part of the team, I belong here.”
Working as part of the Future Water joint venture, a collaboration between Mackley and Jones Bros. Civil Engineering, Aleksandra has found a supportive environment that encourages personal and professional growth.
Aleksandra speaks specifically of Jones Bros. Civil Engineering, describing them as great employers who offer continuous opportunities for growth and development. With access to ongoing training and support, she feels empowered to progress in her career.
“They give you the tools to keep progressing. I’m learning every day.”
When asked where she sees herself in five years, Aleksandra is clear in her ambitions: she hopes to advance as a plant operator and gain experience operating larger, more complex machinery. She’s also excited to see how far the Havant Thicket Reservoir project will have progressed, knowing she’s played a part in shaping its future.
“This project is only just beginning. I can’t wait to see how it grows and how I grow with it.”
Whilst discussing what advice she would give to young women thinking about a career in construction, Aleksandra is clear and encouraging:
“Don’t be afraid. There are so many different roles in construction , come and explore what interests you, and just give it a go.”
She explains that her own journey didn’t follow a typical path and that’s part of what makes the industry so accessible.
“There wasn’t a clear route for me. I just gave it a try and realised I loved working with plant and being outdoors.”
“The construction industry needs more women not just to be represented, but to help shape its future. Being the only woman on site is good, but being one of many would be even better”
To find out more about careers within Future Water, check out the careers page.
Future Water was proud to attend the Earthworks 2025 Conference, hosted by the British Geotechnical Society, bringing together leading minds in geotechnical engineering, sustainable construction, and earthworks innovation.
The event kicked off with a welcome reception at the Lapworth Museum of Geology, home to over 4.6 billion years of geological history. Our team was treated to a rare behind-the-scenes tour, where they explored extraordinary specimens, including one of the most well-preserved trilobite fossils ever discovered in the UK. This immersive experience set the tone for a conference focused on the intersection of science, engineering, and environmental stewardship.
The two-day conference featured a series of thought-provoking keynote presentations and technical talks:
Day One Highlights:
A keynote by Dr. John Perry, Independent Consulting Engineer, explored the evolution of earthworks design and construction.
Sessions covered topics such as resilient and sustainable earthworks, modern design practices, and risk management through monitoring.
Day Two Highlights:
A keynote on Earth Dam Engineering: Past, Present, and Future.
Talks focused on case histories, earthworks trials, specification and treatment techniques, and advances in plant and construction technologies.
Between sessions, Future Water had the opportunity to exhibit our latest work, showcasing how we’re pushing boundaries in sustainable infrastructure and water management. Our stand attracted interest from a wide range of industry professionals, allowing us to connect with like-minded organisations, share project stories, and explore potential collaborations.
This event was not only a chance to learn and reflect—it was a valuable platform for networking and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Future Water’s commitment to innovation and partnership in the geotechnical space.
Future Water was pleased to welcome the Rt. Hon Steve Reed OBE MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to the Havant Thicket Reservoir site in Hampshire — the first new reservoir to be constructed in the UK since the 1980s. His visit marks a significant milestone in the four-year construction programme and highlights the national importance of sustainable, future-ready water infrastructure.
A Closer Look at Progress on Site
Joined by members of the project team and engineering experts, Mr. Reed explored the scale of the reservoir from a dedicated viewing platform, taking in the vast landscape under development. He also had the opportunity to inspect one of the project’s key engineering features — a newly built reinforced concrete culvert.
This culvert will house the pipelines that transport water from the reservoir to a treatment facility before being distributed to homes and businesses across the region. It forms a critical part of the reservoir’s infrastructure, helping to secure long-term water resilience amid growing demand and climate uncertainty.
Part of a National Strategy
The visit was part of a wider tour by Mr. Reed and Water Minister Emma Hardy, aimed at showcasing how major investments in water infrastructure are supporting:
New housing growth
Local job creation
Regional economic development
Environmental sustainability
Havant Thicket Reservoir stands as a prime example of how strategic infrastructure can address multiple national priorities at once — supporting people, the economy, and the environment.
Reservoir Capacity and Environmental Benefits
When complete, Havant Thicket Reservoir will:
Store up to 8.7 billion litres of water
Supply up to 21 million litres per day during prolonged dry periods
Enable water transfers to Southern Water, easing pressure on ecologically sensitive rivers such as the River Test and River Itchen
These capabilities will be crucial in helping the region adapt to climate change, reduce river abstraction, and improve overall water resilience.
More Than a Reservoir: A Community Space
In addition to securing future water supplies, the reservoir is also being developed with the local community in mind. Planned features include:
A visitor centre to support learning and public engagement
New wetland habitats to promote biodiversity
A network of walking and cycling routes, encouraging active lifestyles and recreational use
This integrated design reflects Future Water’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that brings both environmental and social value to the communities it serves.
Date: 13th September 2024
Future Water is proud to announce that main construction is officially underway at Havant Thicket Reservoir, following a ceremonial groundbreaking event that marks a significant milestone in this nationally important infrastructure project.
The occasion brought together key industry and regulatory leaders, including the Chief Executives of Portsmouth Water and Southern Water, Iain Coucher, Chair of OFWAT, and Simon Moody, Area Director for the Environment Agency. Their presence reflects the strong collaboration across the water sector to deliver long-term solutions for water resilience, environmental protection, and sustainable growth.
Highlighting Future Water’s commitment to education and skills development, the ceremony also featured one of our Future Water apprentices, alongside two pupils from local schools, representing the next generation of engineers. Their involvement underlines the reservoir’s wider value as a platform for learning, engagement, and career inspiration within the water and environmental sectors.
This groundbreaking marks more than just the start of construction — it represents years of planning, partnership, and shared ambition to deliver a project that supports climate resilience, environmental management , and regional growth.
As we move into the next phase of construction, Future Water remains dedicated to supporting the delivery of this vital project, helping to shape a resilient, sustainable water future for generations to come.
The first large-scale new water storage reservoir in the UK since the 1980s took a major step forward as a joint venture between Wales and England-based civil engineering contractors was appointed to build a flagship development.
Mackley, whose head office is in West Sussex, and North Wales-based, Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, have united as Future Water MJJV Limited to construct the Havant Thicket Reservoir in Hampshire in a contract worth £167 million.
With more than 150 years’ experience across a wide range of sectors, including water, energy, coastal protection and flood defence, Future Water MJJV is qualified in tackling complex and challenging civil engineering schemes.
As part of the project new £41 million tunnelled pipeline, running to and from the reservoir, is set to be installed by Ward & Burke Construction Limited.
Bob Taylor, chief executive officer at Portsmouth Water, said: “This is a major milestone for the Havant Thicket Reservoir project, and we are overjoyed to have these two exceptional contractors delivering the scheme.
“We were highly impressed by the proposals put forward by Future Water MJJV and Ward & Burke during the tender process, with both companies being able to call upon vastly experienced teams, with strong track records in successfully delivering major infrastructure.”
Future Water director Ben Hamer commented: “Future Water is thrilled to have been selected by Portsmouth Water to deliver this critical piece of water infrastructure for the South East of England. As a regional company, legacy projects, such as this, are central to the values of our staff and stakeholders.”
Mr Hamer’s fellow director John Dielhof added: “It’s a project that we can’t wait to get started on because we know how much of a positive impact it will have on the region.
“The scheme will safeguard dozens of jobs for our skilled workforce, as well as create opportunities for apprentices and trainees to kickstart their civil engineering career with us.
“In addition, we are eager to see the impact this has on the local economy, through supply chain opportunities and spend in the local area.”
Havant Thicket Reservoir in Havant will secure critical water supplies for the South East of England, an area that’s already under serious water stress. It will also help protect environmentally sensitive chalk streams and create a new green leisure facility to benefit local communities and wildlife.
Once completed in 2029, the reservoir will hold approximately 8.7 billion litres of water and be able to supply up to 21 million litres of water each day. It will be one mile from east to west, half a mile from north to south, with a new wetland on its northern shore, and is being built on a 160-hectare grassland site which has been owned by Portsmouth Water since the mid-1960s.
A new two-mile long pipeline, which is designed to be largely tunnelled, will also be built to fill Havant Thicket Reservoir in the winter with surplus water pumped from nearby Bedhampton Springs. It would also be used to draw water from the reservoir to supply customers when it’s needed.
The reservoir was granted formal planning permission in October 2021, with a further planning application for the new pipeline expected to be submitted in Summer 2023.
Ofwat, the economic regulator for water companies in England and Wales, recently published its final decision to agree a revised budget for the Havant Thicket Reservoir scheme. This has enabled Portsmouth Water to award the two main design and construction contracts for the project, with further contracts, including for a new visitor centre at the reservoir, to be awarded in the coming years.
Bob Taylor commented: “‘The final decision from Ofwat on the project’s updated budget will ensure the reservoir scheme can be funded and deliver good value for money for customers, while safeguarding water supplies and supporting nature.
“The innovative regulatory and commercial approach that’s being taken has enabled us to deliver cost-effective local solutions to regional water resources challenges. We would like to thank our colleagues at Ofwat and Southern Water for their excellent collaborative work.”
Portsmouth Water will finance the Havant Thicket Reservoir scheme through a combination of £150 million of equity funding, provided by investors in the company’s owner Ancala Partners, as well as money that will be borrowed. £120 million of the equity funding will be used this year, with a further £30 million to follow in early 2024.
Ultimately, Havant Thicket Reservoir will be paid for by Southern Water, through its drinking water customer bills. These costs are expected to be spread over many years – to reflect the continued benefits of the reservoir. Portsmouth Water customers are not paying for the reservoir through their drinking water or wastewater bills.
Mackley is an engineering contractor specialising in coastal, fluvial and water sector infrastructure, delivering award-winning projects across southern England, around the UK coast and internationally since 1927.
Mackley employs over 120 people and has its own large fleet of land based and river/maritime plant. With skills in construction, design, environment and stakeholder management they lead complex civil engineering projects and work effectively with wider delivery partners. The company’s specialisms help communities be better prepared for climate change, enhance biodiversity and help maintain water security for people in the south.
Established in the 1950s, Jones Bros owns one of the largest plant fleets in the UK and employs approximately 500 people.
The company is currently working on contracts in various sectors including highways, flood and marine defence, waste management and renewable energy around the UK.
The company runs an award-winning apprenticeship scheme, which has produced nearly 50 per cent of its current workforce, with many of its senior managers having started out as apprentices or in a trainee role. It has recruited more than 100 apprentices during the past three years.
