Severn Trent Water has submitted its planning application to build two new service reservoirs near Ambergate in Derbyshire.

The new reservoirs will help ensure that the company can continue to provide quality drinking water to more than half a million customers in the East Midlands.

Andy Smith, Director of Water Services at Severn Trent, said:

“The existing reservoir at Ambergate has deteriorated with age and does need replacing. We have undertaken a number of studies over many years to establish the best course of action and believe that building two new reservoirs on and adjacent to the existing one is the best solution.

“We understand that a project of this magnitude will have an impact on the community and are pleased that so many local people took the time to respond to the consultation process.  We have listened to the concerns raised and are committed to minimising the impact on residents and the environment and providing safe, clean drinking water for the next century.”

Consulting engineer Atkins has drawn up detailed plans of the £30m project to build a covered concrete reservoir next to the existing Ambergate reservoir site.

Subject to planning approval from Amber Valley Borough Council, the work will be undertaken by a selected partner contractor, working on behalf of Severn Trent and will commence in either late 2012 or early 2013. It is scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2017.