Drought Rages, Water Leaks Persist

Regulators have issued a stern warning to South West Water, citing repeated failures to address significant water leaks amid ongoing severe drought conditions. The company, serving 1.8 million people, has not met its targets for leak reduction and pipe repair for seven years, losing approximately 113.5 million litres of water daily – equivalent to 45 Olympic swimming pools.

These ongoing shortcomings are particularly concerning as 82% of England, including significant parts of the south-west, remains in drought. Approximately 325,000 people and thousands of businesses in areas like Exeter and Devon are at risk of supply interruptions. Regulators have given South West Water six weeks to present a comprehensive action plan to tackle its leakage problem.

The company's failure to manage leaks erodes confidence in its ability to ensure supply security and avoid environmentally damaging abstraction from rivers. This situation is occurring while reservoir levels, such as Wimbleball at 16% capacity, are critically low. Local leaders have criticized the company's performance, noting high customer bills and shareholder dividends alongside consistent water loss and pollution issues.

In response to broader water management challenges, the government is establishing eight new regional water councils. These councils will involve local leaders, customers, and businesses to set priorities and guide investment in water infrastructure. South West Water's drought programme director acknowledged the need for sustained rainfall but stated the company is actively repairing leaks and strengthening supplies.