The route was chosen to protect dormice and newts, the firm said

The firm has submitted proposals to two councils for the 2.3-mile (3.75-km) pipeline on the Kent and Sussex border.

Mike Keleher said the company needed to meet growing demand, cater for new homes being built, and ensure supplies continued during drier summer months.

He said the pipe would increase amounts of water that could be distributed.

"By building new pipelines we will also add to our regional water grid and more easily move water around to where it's needed most, especially at times of peak demand for water," he said.

'No-dig techniques'

Mr Keleher said the route of the pipeline was chosen to minimise impacts on the community and the environment - particularly on protected wildlife species such as great-crested newts and dormice.

The 12in-diameter (300mm) water main will connect the Groombridge Water Treatment Works with one of its existing service reservoirs in Langton Green. It will run along public and private roads, and then across farmland.

The company has said conventional construction will be used on most of the route, but "no-dig" techniques will be used to cross the River Grom and allotments in Langton Green.

The plans are being considered by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in Kent and Wealden District Council in East Sussex.