Portsmouth Water's Reservoir Promises Economic Boom for South East England
Portfolio | May 07, 2025 | Ancala Partners LLP
Portsmouth Water, backed by private equity firm Ancala Partners LLP, is spearheading a new reservoir project expected to significantly drive the economy in South East England. The Economic Impacts Study, conducted by the University of Birmingham, estimates a 50 million contribution during the construction phase alone, including 84 construction jobs and 15 to 20 apprenticeships. Portsmouth Water's CEO, Bob Taylor, emphasizes the project's long-term economic benefits, projected to contribute 2 million annually post-completion via recreational facilities attracting thousands of visitors. The development involves two main contractors: Future Water MJJV Ltd, a joint venture of Mackley and Jones Bros. Civil Engineering, and Ward & Burke Construction Limited, who also commit to local workforce training. Ancala Partners' investment of 150 million since 2018 has been integral to the project's financing and planning approvals.
Sectors
- Civil Engineering
- Private Equity
- Water Utilities
Geography
- United Kingdom – The reservoir project is based in the UK, specifically targeting economic growth in South East England.
- South East England – The regional focus of the project, targeting economic development and community support in this area.
Industry
- Civil Engineering – The article discusses major construction work involving civil engineering for the reservoir and its associated infrastructure.
- Private Equity – Ancala Partners LLP, a private equity firm, is a primary investor in the reservoir project, showcasing the role of private equity in infrastructure development.
- Water Utilities – The project is spearheaded by Portsmouth Water, a water utility company focusing on regional water supply solutions.
Financials
- 50 million – Expected contribution to the South East economy during the construction phase.
- 150 million – Ancala Partners’ investment in the Portsmouth Water project.
- 2 million – Annual contribution to the local economy post-project completion.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ancala Partners LLP | Investor | Company | A private equity firm investing in the Portsmouth Water reservoir project. |
| Portsmouth Water | Target Company | Company | Leading the reservoir project, aiming to boost local economy and water resources. |
| Future Water MJJV Ltd | Main Contractor | Company | A joint venture between Mackley and Jones Bros. Civil Engineering UK, responsible for reservoir construction. |
| Ward & Burke Construction Limited | Contractor | Company | Responsible for installing pipelines; a principal in civil and MEICA engineering. |
| University of Birmingham | Researcher | Company | Conducted the Economic Impacts Study on the project. |