The scheme is a joint water transfer project between Affinity Water, Severn Trent, and the Canal & River Trust charity.

It will transfer 115 million litres from the Midlands to the Southeast daily and has been designated as a Project of National Significance.

It is expected to be operational by 2032.

Natasha Coackley, Head of Strategic Water Resources, Affinity Water, said: “Contractors and investors have a crucial role to play in informing how we can best deliver value for money to our customers through this innovative scheme, and helping us drive it forward.

“We have been encouraged by the level of interest the market has shown to date, and I encourage all interested parties to register their interest to engage with us and shape the future of this innovative project.”

Interested organisations can completing the registration-of-interest form available by email from [email protected]