Home / Environment / Drought Bites: UK Businesses Face Water Restrictions
Drought Bites: UK Businesses Face Water Restrictions
14 Oct
Summary
- Golf clubs and private schools may face bans on watering playing fields.
- Eleven areas in England are currently experiencing drought conditions.
- Reservoir levels are at 54%, significantly below expected autumn levels.
Severe drought conditions persist across eleven areas of England, placing significant pressure on rivers and wildlife. Water companies are seeking government approval to implement bans on non-essential water use for businesses, including golf clubs, private schools, and commercial car washes. These restrictions aim to curb water consumption as reservoir levels have fallen to 54% of expected autumn capacity.
River flows in several parts of England are exceptionally low, threatening aquatic habitats and fish populations. Some chalk streams, vital for rare species, are being considered for abstraction even below ecologically safe levels due to critical supply threats. The Angling Trust supports stricter water use regulations and urges action on leakage and unsustainable abstraction.
Specific reservoirs across the country show critically low levels; for instance, Ardingly reservoir is at 1.05 billion litres against a 5.2 billion litre capacity. Colliford reservoir in Cornwall is at 37% capacity, and Wimbleball in Somerset is at 18%. These figures underscore the urgent need for reduced demand and preserved stored water until environmental conditions improve.
