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Tunbridge Wells: A Week Without Safe Water
6 Dec
Summary
- Thousands still lack drinkable water after a week-long supply issue.
- Faulty disinfection at Pembury treatment works prevents safe water production.
- Businesses lost thousands due to closures and spoiled stock.
Residents of Tunbridge Wells have endured almost a full week without access to safe drinking water. A fault in the disinfection process at South East Water's (SEW) Pembury treatment works has rendered tap water undrinkable, necessitating a 'boil water' notice that is expected to persist until at least next Friday. While water is being supplied for non-potable uses like flushing toilets and showering, the lack of safe drinking water poses significant public health challenges.
SEW has acknowledged the recurrence of water quality issues, which led to the initial shutdown, and is working to resolve the problem. However, the extended interruption has severely impacted local businesses. Some owners have reported substantial financial losses due to spoiled stock and forced closures, with one cafe owner estimating a loss of up to £7,000. The situation has drawn criticism from local and national political figures.
