The New River

England’s New River was constructed between 1602 and 1613. Like renewable energy projects of today the building of the New River met an urgent need of the time (fresh water for London’s rapidly growing population). The project was undertaken as a negotiated arrangement between the private sector and the state and encountered the same sorts of planning, land use and financial issues familiar to project developers today.

Edmund Colthurst conceived the idea of diverting the river Lea into North London in 1602, received his royal warrant, surveyed the 40-mile route and started digging in 1604. With guaranteed offtake and known technology risk, the project certainly looked feasible. However, two miles in, Edmund Colthurst ran out of money.

Construction was restarted in 1609 by Hugh Myddelton, a London goldsmith, investor and entrepreneur. Myddelton added capital and his considerable commercial skill and the project made rapid progress. However, nearing completion the project again ran short of funds.

Myddelton convinced King James I to invest fresh equity in return for 50% of the company, resulting in one of England’s earliest public/private infrastructure partnerships. The New River was completed and opened on 29 September 1613 and continues to supply fresh water to London today, remaining as an embodiment of Colthurst’s vision and Myddelton’s energy and entrepreneurship.