Cambridgeshire is set to face increasing pressures on its water resources over the next two decades, as climate change causes higher temperatures and less rainfall than the UK average.
We need to make significant reductions to our current abstraction from chalk streams to restore and protect these special environments for the future.
Demand for water in our area will increase by 13% by 2043, caused by a projected population rise of 6% and substantial forecast economic growth. These challenges combined mean that if we don’t act now, we will run out of water.
The pipeline from Grafham to Cambridge will keep taps running for years to come. With a duty to protect the environment from abstraction, combined with the government’s significant growth plans in Cambridge for housing and employment, this water source will be critical for ensuring a reliable, long-term water supply, bringing sustainable prosperity and development in Cambridge for future generations.
Update on project
We have identified a preferred route for the pipeline and have submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Report to the Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) crossed by the route; Huntingdonshire District Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council. The EIA Scoping Report provides information about the proposed Scheme and sets out the scope and methodology for the environmental assessments we plan to carry out to support the planning application, so that the LPAs can provide their Scoping Opinion.
Environmental surveys, ground investigation and engineering work are ongoing and will feed into the final route, for which we intend to submit a planning application in 2026. We always endeavour to minimise our impact on communities and the environment, and work with local communities to deliver a legacy along the route.
Public information events
It's important to us that we gather feedback from the communities that may be impacted by the proposed pipeline scheme. To support this, we're running a series of public information events.
Our events will provide information, detailed maps, timelines and FAQs. You will also have the opportunity to speak to our project team, as questions and share your views.
Face-to-face events
Online webinar
To check times, help manage attendance and make sure everyone can speak with our team, please confirm your attendance using the online booking form.
If you're unable to attend one of our consultation events, you can still find out more about our proposed route. View the consultation document library, and complete the online feedback form to share your thoughts with us.
If you would like to contact us about the Grafham to Cambridge section of the project, please email: estates@south-staffs-water.co.uk.
Our impact
We always endeavour to minimise our impact on communities and the environment, and work with local communities to deliver a legacy along the route.