Today Jim opened the new Haddenham Pumping Station which drains over 7,500 acres of surrounding farmland, using three 150HP electric pumps that drains 60 tonnes of water per minute. The project cost £1.7m and is built on the site of the old steam pump built in 1897.

In his speech he described the importance of the new pumping station to the surrounding area saying:

“There are increasing pressures on crops due to population increases, and this new station will help regulate drainage of the cropland. As a Government we need to support food production and farmers as they are a crucial part of the £88 billion net food supply market - often hidden behind food sellers.”

Bird and bat boxes were incorporated into the design of the station in order to accommodate the local wildlife, appreciated by local walkers and residents. Richard Wright, Chairman of the Haddenham Level Drainage Commissioners who operate the station, commented on the importance of considering local wildlife whilst designing the new station saying:

“the area surrounding the station is a rich habitat to many farmland birds and bats... farming and wildlife are a partnership.”