Useful Information
raise awareness of the Reservoir Safety Reform Programme
explain the key reform proposals currently being developed
help reservoir owners and undertakers understand the potential implications of the proposed changes
provide an opportunity for questions and gather early feedback
encourage participation in the upcoming public consultation
- Webinar recording
- Slide pack
- Question and answer document
Small-portfolio/single reservoir owners/undertakers
We hosted two webinars in July 2026 for single and small-portfolio reservoir owners and undertakers. The webinars were designed to:
Below you can view the webinar recording, access the slide pack, and read the questions raised during the sessions, together with the answers provided:
Farm reservoir construction guidance
In parts of England - especially the east - water supplies for farming are becoming less reliable due to drought, restrictions, and environmental pressures. Storing water in winter is becoming more important to manage this.
If you are thinking of building a farm reservoir, you can find clear, practical advice in the Planning Farm Reservoirs booklet (updated April 2026). It includes step-by-step information, costs, and real examples from farms in the Fens and Eastern England. There is also a version of the guide specifically for the Essex and Suffolk National Landscapes area
These farmer-focused guides have been developed with support from Water Resources East and local National Landscapes. They explain what’s involved in building a farm reservoir, including planning, permissions, design, costs and working with others.
Devolved Governments
We are working closely with the devolved governments to share knowledge and help ensure a coherent approach to the reservoir regulation across the UK.
Since November 2024, Wales has joined the Reservoir Safety Reform Programme.
To find out more about the Reservoir Safety Reform Programme in Wales, visit Natural Resources Wales's information page.
Reservoir Safety Reform Programme in Wales (Citizen Space)
Visit the Citizen Space webpage for the latest updates on the Reservoir Safety Reform Programme in Wales.
Reservoir Safety Reform Programme page (Gov.uk)
Access official documentation and updates on the Reservoir Safety Reform Programme via GOV.UK. This page provides detailed information on the UK Government’s Reservoir Safety Reform Programme, including policy proposals and supporting materials.
Reservoir Safety: Guides about reservoir safety for owners, operators and engineers (Gov.uk)
This GOV.UK page provides a comprehensive collection of official guidance, policies and resources related to reservoir safety in the UK for owners, operators and engineers.
The Reservoirs Act 1975
Visit this page to access the full text of the Reservoirs Act 1975, which outlines the legal duties for constructing, inspecting, supervising and maintaining large raised reservoirs to ensure public safety.