Anglian Water is asking residents in Histon and Impington to share their views on proposals for a new 49km pipeline that will pass close to the village.
The water company has now launched a public consultation into the multi-million pound infrastructure project between Lolworth and Rede, in Suffolk. It is proposed the pipeline will pass through the north of Histon.
Residents will also be able to find out more at an online event on Wednesday (11 March) and an in-person public engagement session on 25 March at the St Andrew’s Centre. Leaflets have also been put through letterboxes across the village promoting the events.
Anyone who wishes to attend the sessions is being asked to register in advance via the Anglian Water website, where there is further information on the project.
Investment
The project is the second stage of a larger 70km pipeline that will eventually transfer water from Grafham Water Treatment Works to the Rede Storage Reservoir.
The East of England is considered to be one of the UK’s most water-stressed regions and is one of the fastest-growing. Hotter, drier summers linked to climate change are also putting extra pressure on water resources.
The new pipeline would allow water to be moved from areas where it is more available to places facing increasing demand. It is also designed to reduce reliance on sensitive sources such as chalk streams.
Ian Rule, Director of Water Services at Anglian Water, said: “At this early stage, it’s really important that we listen to the communities along the proposed route. This consultation is about sharing information, answering questions and making sure local views help shape the plans before we move forward.”
Preparations
Environmental and archaeological surveys are already underway to help shape the route and design of the pipeline. The project team says it wants to avoid sensitive habitats, protect wildlife and preserve important archaeological sites, with a commitment to delivering biodiversity net gain wherever possible.
Modern construction methods would be used to reduce disruption. These include trenchless techniques where the pipeline crosses roads, rivers and railways, helping to limit traffic delays and protect the landscape.
It is hoped the relevant planning documents will be submitted next year, and work will begin by Spring 2028.
Andy Alder, Managing Director for Major Infrastructure Delivery at Anglian Water, added:
“Delivering infrastructure on this scale has to be done in the right way – with communities, not around them.”
Anglian Water’s consultation closes on 12 April, 2026. To find out more, visit the consultation website which outlines further details about the project and offers guidance on how to register for the public consultation sessions. It is also possible to contact the project team directly by emailing strategicpipelines@anglianwater.co.uk or calling 03457 145 145, quoting “strategic pipelines”.
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