North Suffolk could see a huge new reservoir created over the next 15 years as its water company tries to cope with increased demand.

Essex and Suffolk Water supplies the north east of the county from the Leiston area as far north as Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.

At present most of the water in the south of this area comes from boreholes, but in the Lowestoft and Yarmouth area it takes water from rivers.

However, the increased number of homes and businesses means that more water will be needed.

The proposed new reservoir was raised this week when Suffolk County Council's cabinet discussed how it would deal with major infrastructure projects in the future.

No site for a new reservoir has yet been identified - but the company, part of the Northumbrian Water Group, said that reservoirs like the one it has at Abberton, near Colchester, are a major wildlife resource as well as supplying customers.

It could be completed by 2035 - but may not be needed until 2041.

A spokesperson for Essex & Suffolk Water said: “We are still in the early planning stages of this work, which has been proposed as an option in our draft Water Resources Management Plan.

“Suffolk is one of the most water-stressed regions in the country, which is why we encourage our customers to use water wisely when they can.

"We will be working closely with our local stakeholders and Suffolk County Council to ensure that any developments take place are supported by the community."

The importance of securing water supplies was recognised by Suffolk County Council whose deputy leader Richard Rout said: “In order to adapt to the changing climate, Suffolk will need to host new infrastructure that is critical to safeguard our water supplies.

“This supply is important for not only residential, business, and agricultural use, but also to protect and enhance the environment of Suffolk by supporting river levels and groundwater.”