A key element of the project will be 4km of tunnels to convey water from the River Thames, via a pumping station, to the 150 billion litre reservoir.
The project is one of nine new reservoirs aimed at providing water security for the UK.
The company is seeking a main works contractor to design, build, test and commission the reservoir which would be situated south-west of Abingdon. The proposed reservoir would supply water to Oxfordshire and Wiltshire, through to Hampshire and London. It would also be a recreational area.
Thames Water CEO Chris Weston said the project was one of the UK’s most significant investments in water infrastructure in decades.
“Once built it would be one of the largest in the country, providing water to millions, supporting new homes and development, and creating an exciting new destination where people can unwind and connect with nature.
“Careers will be made and built through the reservoir’s construction with thousands of jobs created, supporting families and communities across the south-east.”
Southern Water major projects director Ben Ring said that the reservoir, combined with the company’s Thames to Southern Transfer pipeline, would supply up to 120 million litres of water a day during a drought.
Affinity Water asset strategy and capital delivery director Stephen Plumb said it was crucial that the industry planned for resilient water supplies in the future.
Ofwat senior director for major projects: Chris Taylor said building on the success of the Thames Tideway project, using a competitive third-party delivery approach would boost resilience in the sector and deliver better value for customers.
“Engaging contractors at an early stage in the development of reservoir will tap into specialist expertise and innovative solutions – all of which can help lower costs in the longer term,” he said.
Feedback gathered during Thames Water’s statutory consultation will shape its reservoir plans and its Development Consent Order application, ahead of submission to the government later this year. Should the project be approved, the reservoir should be operational water from 2040.
Thames Water is hosting an online applicant briefing on February 11 regarding the request to participate stage and the main works contract opportunity. Applicants wishing to attend the briefing must register by 12 noon on February 10.
Thames Water head of procurement & supply chain said the company was seeking a contractor with the vision, capability and track record to deliver one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects, ensuring value for money for customers.
“This is project would secure water supply for millions, protect the environment and create a space that people can enjoy for generations to come,” he said.
Details on the tender notice process and how to sign-up to the Applicant Briefing can be found on the gov.uk website.
Interested organisations have until April 24 to submit a request to participate, after which shortlisted, applicants will be invited to submit detailed tenders.
