Thames Water and other water companies have published a consultation on a South East Regional Water Resources Plan which includes the proposal for the massive reservoir between Steventon, Drayton, the Hanneys, Marcham and Abingdon.

They have included the reservoir in their plans despite the proposal only just having started to go through the 'RAPID' process being run by OFWAT, the Water Regulator.

Local Liberal Democrat councillors, supported by Layla Moran MP, are calling for any plans to be put on hold while the proposal is still going through the 'RAPID' process.

"How can anyone trust that the RAPID process is fair and independent if the water companies are being allowed to start promoting this scheme as if it is a done deal," said Sally Povolotsky, County Councillor for Harwell & Hendreds.

For the last 20 years the parishes of Steventon, Drayton, Hanneys, Marcham, Abingdon and Sutton Courtenay have fiercely objected to this unnecessary reservoir.

The reservoir presents a huge risk to the character of the local communities, irrevocable damage and destruction to local ecology and wildlife.  Its construction will mean ten years of pollution, traffic, HGV traffic and danger for our residents.

We urge local residents to sign our petition