Water companies must ‘step up efforts’ to manage supply

Water companies are implementing actions from their drought plans and increasing efforts to reduce leakage amid record-breaking temperatures and low rainfall.

The Environment Agency said it expects the sector to “step up efforts” to manage supplies and protect the “precious resource”.

Last month was the driest June since 1925 and the agency says its teams have responded to 44 “significant environmental incidents” since the end of the month.

During a meeting of the National Drought Group (NDG) which was held on Monday (23 July), water companies explained how they were implementing activity set out in their drought plans and increasing efforts to reduce leakage.

The lack of rain led to United Utilities’ announcement of a hosepipe ban, which will come into effect on 5 August.

Not all water companies are struggling, with South East Water’s reservoirs at Ardingly and Ardington in Sussex both at almost 80 per cent capacity – levels to be expected at this time of year.

Sir James Bevan, chief executive of the Environment Agency, said: “The water that comes from the tap is taken from our rivers and reservoirs and the amount we use has a direct effect on people and the environment around us.

“As we prepare for drought in the North West and dry weather continues around the country, we have stepped up our response to minimise wastage and tackle the impacts of low river flows on wildlife.

“We all have a part to play to protect this precious resource. I expect water companies to step up their efforts to ensure supplies are well-managed and people at home should use water wisely.”

Other sectors have also been affected by the dry weather including the agricultural industry where there are concerns about water supplies needed for irrigation.

The Environment Agency is meeting with affected groups to provide practical advice about conserving water and planning for drought, should the dry spell continue.

The National Farmers’ Union, which also attended the meeting, said it is closely working with the Environment Agency and public water supply companies to help manage the situation.

NFU deputy president Guy Smith, said: “Farmers are used to dealing with the challenges extreme weather can pose but this unprecedented spell of 40 days of sunshine and sustained high temperatures has been unusual. It’s another example of the extra pressures and volatility farmers are facing at this time.

“We are also continuing to monitor the production of field veg and soft fruit. A number of abstraction restrictions are now in place in some catchments.  We are working closely with the Environment Agency, internal drainage boards, public water supply companies and Defra to help manage the situation for our members.”