Major Water Project Set to Quench Cornwall’s Thirst: Details Inside!

South West Water has announced significant progress in its plans to enhance water resilience in Cornwall with a new desalination project.

This two-phased approach aims to address the urgent need for sustainable water sources in response to climate change and regional drought concerns.

Phase One: Immediate Action

The initial phase of the project involves the construction of a smaller desalination plant in Par, Cornwall. Scheduled to begin operations later this year, this facility is designed to mesh seamlessly with existing infrastructure, thereby protecting the local marine environment. Once operational, the plant will provide between 2.5 to 5 million litres of clean drinking water each day, depending on the region’s needs.

Strategic Development

David Harris, Drought and Resilience Director at South West Water, emphasized the proactive measures taken following a wet winter to prepare for future drought conditions exacerbated by climate change. According to David, “Our current reservoir levels may look healthy, but the impact of climate change tells us we need to be more resilient.”

This smaller plant serves a dual purpose: meeting immediate water demands and allowing the company additional time to perfect plans for a larger facility, ensuring minimal environmental impact on St Austell Bay.

Looking Ahead: A Larger Solution

The second phase of the project involves replacing the smaller facility with a larger plant capable of producing up to 20 million litres of drinking water daily. This expansion will utilize much of the existing infrastructure, reinforcing the company’s commitment to environmental conservation.

South West Water is actively engaging with experts to deepen its understanding of the marine and natural environment around St Austell Bay. This meticulous approach ensures that development efforts are sensitive to the local ecosystem and align with broader regional plans.

Community Engagement and Environmental Considerations

The company has not only focused on technological solutions but has also prioritised community involvement and environmental stewardship. Recent meetings with local residents and forthcoming public events aim to keep the community informed and involved in the project’s progression.

Extensive environmental surveys are currently underway to support the planning application for the second phase, building on previous assessments to confirm the project’s sustainability.

Additional Regional Investments

In conjunction with the desalination project, South West Water is also working to increase overall water resources in Cornwall by 45% and in Devon by 30% by 2025. This includes repurposing disused quarries and promoting water conservation through the Water is Precious campaign, which encourages both residents and visitors to reduce water usage.

For more details on the desalination project and other water conservation efforts, visit South West Water’s Desalination Page.

This project marks a significant step towards securing a sustainable and climate-resilient water supply for Cornwall, ensuring that the region can continue to thrive in the face of changing global conditions.